Dream Leicester lineup as Foxes recruitment creates 2026 transfer strategy

Anis Mehmeti: Bristol City, Left-winger

Bristol City are a strong team, with a balance of attack (22 total goals) and defence (18 conceded). One part of that strong attack, which has the Robins placed 8th in the league, is Anis Mehmeti. The AM-LW goal-scoring forward. Replacing the King Power Club's current left-wing option, Mehmeti would certainly bring some goal threat.

With five goals and three assists across his 15 Championship starts, the end product and creative intent are significantly greater than Stephy Mavididi. The player performs around expectations on xG vs actual goals (5.3 xG) and just ahead on assists (xA of 2.4). This means the Foxes could bring in a reliable threat who creates chances (52 shot-creating actions total) and typically shoots from the left half-space or just outside the box.

Stylistically, Mehmeti is usually a half-space goal threat more similar to an inside forward; this means he lacks the touchline creation and progression we do get with Mavididi. However, this can be overcome with a more progressive left-back being used to overlap on the outside (Victor Kristiansen, perhaps). Upon receiving progressive passes, the left-winger does a good job of turning quickly to maintain momentum. Otherwise, the only real negative is the lack of defensive actions and pressing, which is concerning when a team is under pressure.

Anis Mehmeti's form can be streaky, but overall, he offers a more potent option on the wings for Leicester City. In terms of feasibility, I would rate this one around 7/10 as Bristol City usually sell for the right price. The potential (8/10) and upgrades (9/10) are huge for the 24-year-old. This one would be a big improvement to the starting XI.

Brief note: Jaden Philogene would also represent a massive upgrade on Stephy Mavididi. Combining elite dribbling on the touchline and six goals scored, the winger would be a higher promise and more energetic pressing option. However, in playing for Ipswich Town, who are, of course, doing well, it is hard to see a realistic move.

Sorba Thomas: Stoke City, Right-winger

Stoke City are performing better than expected, sitting in third place. A large portion of that success can be attributed to their playmaking right-winger, Sorba Thomas. A touchline crosser, key-pass king, and dead-ball specialist, Thomas offers a genuine alternative to the explosive pace and take-ons of Abdul Fatawu.

With four goals and four assists (both outperforming xG and xA by two), we get a picture of a balanced, creative player. Again, Fatawu is a different kind of right-winger, so a comparison may be a little unfair on either of them. However, with his elite crossing, Thomas offers a different dimension in creating opportunities, while also not sacrificing defensive work rate.

I feel Sorba Thomas is a realistic target. I would rank the feasibility around 7/10, as Stoke City would likely sell for the right price. Regarding the upgrade score, Thomas is more creative and offers a different dimension when Fatawu's explosive take-ons are not working or creating chances, and would pair well with a strong centre-forward upgrade (8/10). In terms of their potential, the player is entering their prime age and has been a strong Championship creator for years. He could offer a decent long-term option while the Foxes integrate young talent (7/10).