3 Things to know about Leicester transfer targets Ryan Giles and Joel Piroe
By Will Kennedy
This summer has brought a new era to Leicester City, and with the transfer window officially opening on Saturday, Enzo Maresca’s rebuild is under way. With eight players already departing the Foxes (and the future of club captain Jonny Evans still unanswered) there is now a large gap to fill on Filbert Way.
Reliable sources indicate that both Harry Winks and Conor Coady are imminent arrivals in the East Midlands and now full focus is on who Maresca’s next arrival will be. Whilst the experience of the two England internationals will be invaluable, the Foxes must also be looking at Championship know-how as they aim to clinch promotion at the first time of asking.
The rumour mill has delivered two names in particular that should get Leicester fans’ attention: Ryan Giles and Joel Piroe. Here are three things that Foxes of Leicester think you need to know about the potential recruits.
A potentially perfect signing
Still only 23, Ryan Giles can be classed as a seasoned Championship campaigner. A product of Wolverhampton Wanderers’ youth academy, Giles has spent the last three years on loan at multiple Championship clubs, amassing 119 appearances in England’s second division.
A left-back by trade, Giles has played across the left flank in his career and is seen as one of the most promising English players in his position. Previously playing on loan at Coventry City, Rotherham United, Cardiff City, and Blackburn Rovers, it was Middlesbrough who secured his services for the 2022/23 season.
‘Boro’s’ ascendency under manager Michael Carrick has been frequently documented this season, as the Manchester United legend took them from the bottom of the Championship to the playoff spots. Making 45 appearances, Giles played a crucial part of that rise, assisting a staggering 11 goals from his position.
His talent is clear and is reflected on his £9million price valuation. Now at a cross-roads in his career, Giles faces a choice whether to try and force his way into Wolves’ squad for the Premier League, or if he pursues a move elsewhere. One thing is for sure, he won’t want another loan.
Middlesbrough will be keen of signing him up permanently, but Leicester’s interest isn’t good news for the club; the spending power and pull the Foxes have may be enough to pip any rivals to Giles’ signature.
Discussing the prospect of a move to the King Power, James Reeves, a writer for FootballLeagueWorld, labelled the move ‘an outstanding addition for Leicester’ as they aim to build up a ferocious side for the Championship. Reeves continued, stating that ‘there is no doubt that Giles was one of the best left-backs in the division last season and if a deal can be secured, it is a no-brainer for the Foxes.’