Leicester bid rejected for international but Foxes should persist
By Nathan Wong
After a chastening defeat to Newcastle United on Boxing day, it is clear that Leicester City must strengthen in the upcoming January transfer window. Whilst it is a notoriously complicated window to do business in, the Foxes have money to spend due to taking an advance loan on upcoming payments for the sale of Wesley Fofana. Therefore, as the rumour mill goes into overdrive, Leicester City continue to be linked with a host of players.
The latest on Robin Gosens
One player who has been repeatedly linked with Leicester City is German full-back Robin Gosens. Out of favour at Inter Milan, the 28-year-old German would be a versatile addition, being able to play anywhere along the left-hand side. The latest links are reported by the Leicester Mercury who have stated that Leicester are one of three clubs that have had bids turned down for the German.
Whilst the rejection of bids may seem mystifying given Gosens’ lack of game time, Inter have apparently been enthused by his recent friendly performances and would prefer to keep him. This situation would only change if a substantial sum is offered, which would tempt the Italian club due to their well-publicised financial difficulties.
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FOL’s verdict on the potential Leicester City signing
The main question that remains, is whether Gosens would be the right signing for the Foxes. With finances still limited, signings must hit the ground running. He would certainly be a marquee signing of sorts, being an experienced international who has performed at the highest level.
Furthermore, he has proven himself to be when given the game time, an effective attacking force from left-back. Considering the only left-back available at the moment is Luke Thomas, Gosens would certainly be an upgrade at least in terms of his attacking contribution.
Nevertheless, Gosens is more adept to playing in a back three rather than a back four which is favoured by Brendan Rodgers currently. To accommodate his abilities may risk negating the talents of Harvey Barnes who is most effective at holding width, the area which would usually be occupied by a player like the Emmerich-born man.
Ultimately, his signing could be a shrewd one for the right price as it would allow Leicester City to utilise a back three more effectively. This would potentially allow playing two-up front, which could be a way to mask the current imbalances for the time being. However, this depends on progress made in signing other positions, especially a left-footed right-winger.
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If LCFC were to sign someone such as the Brazilian Tete, then the need for someone of Gosens’ profile may not be as great. Even so, the Foxes should certainly probe Inter’s resolve with another bid given the available funds. With his market value being around £18m, a loan or a bid of under £20m should definitely be explored.