The rumour mills are once again picking up speed as Leicester City face a defining summer. Even though the winter transfer window recently closed, speculation is rife concerning LCFC. No fewer than seventeen current Foxes, temporary and permanent, are expected to find the end of the road. Seven of the men's deals are respectively running out; they are names well-known to the Blue Army.
"At the very least, it seems 17 first-team players will say their goodbyes this summer."Jordan Blackwell - LCFC Live
These developments highlight a squad in arguable peril and in desperate need of a facelift. While some exits feel like a natural parting of ways, others serve as a stark reminder of the recruitment errors that have left the Foxes in their current predicament.
The King Power clear-out: Seven Leicester City players with expiring contracts set for the sunset
The first situation is a mix of nostalgia and pragmatism. Ricardo Pereira, once the undisputed jewel in City's defensive crown, remains a sentimental favorite for the fan base. However, father time and injuries have caught up with the Portuguese international.
Ricardo's quality and pace are arguably dwindling slightly, making a contract extension unlikely. Similarly, veteran stopper Asmir Begovic may have been a solid insurance policy on paper, but at 38, even his back-up presence feels more like a placeholder than a future-proof plan.
Meanwhile, short-term January arrival Jamaal Lascelles faces an uncertain fate. Despite leadership pedigree, LCFC must weigh whether his aging legs can meet the physical demands of another promotion charge.
"Asmir Begovic and Jamaal Lascelles may be more likely to get new contracts, but even their wage packets may be too much when the rest of the squad is considered."
The most toxic situation revolves around Harry Winks. Undoubtedly an able technician, Winks' tenure has been marred by reported managerial bust-ups. With the relationship between player and supporters at an all-time low, a clean break is the only logical conclusion.
Up front, the failures of Jordan Ayew and Patson Daka epitomise Leicester's recent struggles. Neither has consistently delivered the clinical edge required, and their probable departures will signal the end of a frustrating era.
Finally, young Wanya Marcal. He once promised much, yet has simply failed to make the grade. Rounding off a list of possible departures that confirms the Foxes' urgent need for a fresh start.