Summer transfer business at Leicester City has so far been defined by far more departures than arrivals, a situation shaped by the East Midlands team's relegation from the EFL Championship and persistent unrest at boardroom level. Ownership uncertainties and a notable lack of visible direction from chairman Aiyawatt Srivaddhanaprabha (Top) have slowed progress, forcing high profile exits to balance the books while possible new recruits have proven frustratingly difficult to secure in the opening weeks of the window.
Foxes supporters have every right to feel anxious about the weeks remaining before the season begins. Yet there remains quiet hope that Russell Martin will be given enough backing to address gaps in his squad regardless of the off-field turbulence; aside capable of immediate promotion is required.
Since taking charge, Martin has brought clear structure and fresh ideas to training sessions and matches at Seagrave, elsewhere in England and during the warm-weather preparations in Spain, quickly establishing his authority and vision for how the team should play. The Brighton-born boss will have had a decisive say for every name that moves in or out, prioritising character and suitability.
The balance of the squad is slowly improving as fringe players move on, but there is no escaping the fact that the starting line-up requires meaningful reinforcement before the League One campaign gets underway. Key positions still lack competition and proven quality, leaving little room for error in what promises to be a fiercely competitive division.
Reports linking the club with Luton Town forward Elijah Adebayo appear to have been wide of the mark; substantial talks may never have even taken place between the two parties. While such rumours serve as a reminder of the hunger for specific attacking additions, it is elsewhere that Martin's attention has firmly turned, and where he holds a distinct advantage.
Two targets stand out; recruitment staff can head into these negotiations with real optimism thanks to a previously established working relationships with both players. Martin knows their respective strengths and weaknesses, understands their mindset and hopefully has first-hand experience of getting the best out of them at previous clubs.
Two feasible Leicester City signings
First among these is John Souttar, the experienced Scotland international defender currently surplus to requirements at Rangers and the subject of a suppsed 'straight fight between Leicester and Swansea City' for his signature. The irony of pursuing the brother of Harry Souttar (the towering centre-back widely expected to depart the East Midlands before the window closes) will not be lost on long-time supporters - it's 'very Leicester'!
"Souttar was Martin's first-choice centre-back at Ibrox and that could potentially give the Foxes an edge over their competition to sign him."Yahoo Sports
Though John has slipped down the pecking order at Ibrox and technically faces a drop of two divisions to join the Foxes (more like one level in actuality), he was Martin’s first-choice central defender during their time together, and that trust and chemistry could prove the deciding factor in this transfer race. Only Swansea City stand in the way.
The second name firmly on Martin's radar is Liam Cullen, the versatile attacker who worked under him during his spell in charge at Swansea, ironically. The pair reportedly had a solid relationships before Martin left for Southampton and then Rangers; Cullen's adaptability across the forward line would bring welcome flexibility to the ranks.
"Leicester are advancing in talks to sign Swansea attacker Liam Cullen"OneFootball via Leicestershire Live
While his all-round ability and work rate are beyond question, it is equally true that the Welshman is not the out-and-out specialist striker fans are calling for to lead the line. Even so, his familiarity with the gaffer's systems and his eagerness to link up once more make this a move that holds genuine appeal for all concerned.
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