One of the most irritating and difficult elements of Leicester City's season for their fan base to digest was losing star midfield loanee Jordan James. Even amidst relegation to the third-tier of English football, following demotion from the Championship, James was the one true, consistent star in the Leicester City side.
During his loan spell, the Wales international proved himself an indispensable engine in the middle of the park, contributing significantly with his high-intensity pressing and progressive ball-carrying. His goalscoring productivity remained a rare beacon of hope in a darkening campaign, often serving as the primary bridge between the defensive line and the final third.
​Even Abdul Fatawu struggled to keep up with the young baller, amid the Ghanaian's own slight inconsistency, petulance and immaturity problems. Fatawu is currently showcasing his blistering pace on the global stage, having recently helped Ghana advance to the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Nevertheless, the East Midlands club are no longer likely to retain Fatawu for the upcoming campaign; James's departure was confirmed long ago. Had City remained in tier-three, they surely could have kept both standouts and mounted a real challenge in that division towards Premier League re-entry, as well as salvation.
​Instead of recruits and personnel such as these high-calibre ballers, Leicester will have cheaper, less qualified professionals at their disposal in 2026/27. The current economic reality at King Power Stadium dictates a stringent approach that prioritises immediate financial security over squad retention.
​Both aforementioned men could certainly play in the English top flight, respectively possessing the technical requisite to thrive in a more demanding environment. So will City starlet Jeremy Monga, who is strongly linked with a transfer to Arsenal very soon after displaying occasional flashes of promise in his many Championship outings.
​Ben Nelson may also be sacrificed to ensure financial security as he enters the final year of his deal. But which teams are chasing these Foxes in the transfer window?
Current and ex-Leicester City player speculation
​Nelson supposedly has Italian Serie A side Torino, Chelsea and Manchester United, of all outfits, tracking his situation; £5 million could potentially secure the defender's signature. West Ham United, Leicester’s rivals Coventry City, and Besiktas are reportedly monitoring the mercurial winger.
Fatawu actually has a £30m release clause within his contract, apparently, which reflects the high ceiling scouts see in his raw physical profile. Monga could go for up to £15m: should a tribunal be required to set the costs of developing such a bright young talent.
"Now, the Hammers have been linked to a player with Championship experience, although they will face competition from Premier League side Crystal Palace."FLW
Meanwhile, Rennes have ostensibly made a reasonable £13m valuation for their asset, Jordan James. West Ham, now a Championship side, are keen, while Crystal Palace are meant to be lining up a £10m offer for the exceptional former Birmingham City man.
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