Leicester City set to make first summer signing
Leicester City are finally set to make a first summer signing, according to credible journalist John Percy. But Foxes fans shouldn’t get too excited as the addition will be backup goalkeeper Alex Smithies.
You won’t need me to explain that Leicester’s transfer window of summer 2022 is currently one of the quietest in existence – for any team. Yet business is beginning to be completed, with Eldin Jakupovic being the sole leaver whilst LCFC waited to offload in order to get additional players in.
Just before the season began, captain Kasper Schmeichel left. This was an odd development: he was No.1 goalkeeper, with no replacement incoming. Though the switch to OGC Nice was an equally polarising loss: some felt Schmeichel was slightly antiquated, yet all know that the stopper is a club legend. The dispensation afforded the Dane is understandable due to his outstanding service.
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Now Hamza Choudhury is off the wages too, but only for a year. Again, Foxes of Leicester acclaim the academy graduate for his commitment on the pitch when rarely called upon. Though a permanent exit felt most suitable. Choudhury is not in Rodgers’ plans, so offering a two-year contract extension can also be questioned.
If Nampalys Mendy departs in 2023, a second choice – or lower – defensive midfield option may reopen for Choudhury once more, to make sense of it. Although, LCFC might perhaps be creating another issue for the next couple of offseasons by retaining athletes they clearly do not need.
#lcfc close to their first signing of the summer - ex-Cardiff & Huddersfield goalkeeper Alex Smithies in talks over a move on a free transfer. The 32yo was recently on trial at #afcb. Leicester hopeful of further additions through the exits of players inc Soumare & Vestergaard
— John Percy (@JPercyTelegraph) August 11, 2022
Finally an incoming signing is set to be made on Filbert Way, even if it is just a third choice goalie. Alex Smithies, formerly of Cardiff City, is joining the East Midlands side, if John Percy is correct. The journalist is typically accurate on all these matters, incidentally. And don’t worry, this will be a free transfer so funds remain available.
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Smithies, 32, who has represented Huddersfield Town as well, will likely be behind Daniel Iversen in the pecking order. Danny Ward is manager Brendan Rodgers’ new first-choice ‘keeper at present.