Leicester consider selling wantaway Schmeichel this summer

Leicester City are reportedly considering selling Kasper Schmeichel this summer as he enters the final year of his contract and French club OGC Nice eye a move.

Along with his current agreement running down and a desire to return to the Champions League, there is now further speculation about Schmeichel’s immediate future. OGC Nice are interested and it is claimed the Foxes might sell, partly due to lofty weekly wages.

Nice shall enter the Europa Conference League Play-offs in 2022/23, as they finished fifth in Ligue 1. Therefore Schmeichel’s wish of participating in the UCL again would not be granted. Neither would he play in the Europa League. Though the Dane might feature in the ECL should he decide to pursue a move to France.

There is also the chance that this talk – and presumably the stopper’s agent – will reignite the flame in other club’s to vie for the former Leeds United and Manchester City man’s signature. Newcastle United have been mentioned by journalists. Naturally that can lead to a slight bidding war which could perhaps equal a much-needed higher fee for LCFC. Then again, interested outfits will be aware that he will be available for free in 2023, with his deal expiring.

Although I am a great fan of Schmeichel as a player and as a human being, another year with the ageing ‘keeper as first choice is not ideal. You see, his distribution, especially by foot, is often miscalculated and ends up off the field. Consequently Brendan Rodgers’ possession system is affected. These simple miskicks often place the East Midlands side in danger because the opposition have advanced possession.

In addition, Schmeichel is rarely confident in claiming crosses. This happens a lot, particularly on corners and set-pieces. I feel another goalie would be able to help alleviate some of Leicester’s problems in those areas.

The main concern is replacing the Denmark international. Daniel Iversen is rated, appears a competent shot stopper yet made two goal-conceding errors in three friendly matches. Jakub Stolarczyk is arguably still developing, though is a decent prospect as well.

Funds remain low or nonexistent for signings on Filbert Way, making this potential exit less likely. Whilst possibly suitable successors with more modern attributes such as Dean Henderson and Nick Pope made temporary and permanent switches to Nottingham Forest and Newcastle United, respectively.

Furthermore, L’Equipe declare that the 35-year-old wants to join the French club. However, the outlet suggest that ‘KS’ remains honourable to LCFC: only agreeing a switch if his heir is found.