Leicester City plan £15m bid as Newcastle transfer deal ‘appeals’

Leicester City are reportedly planning a £15m bid for Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff.

Filling the managerial vacancy is the priority for the Foxes in their search for Enzo Maresca’s replacement. But they also have an eye on the opening of the summer transfer window next Friday as they prepare for a return to the Premier League.

According to The Mirror, City have been tracking midfielder Longstaff for several months. They say they are now ready to turn that interest into something more concrete.

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A £15m bid for the 26-year-old is ‘ready’. He has a year left on his contract at St James’ Park and a deal “appeals” for the Magpies, despite boss Eddie Howe’s admiration for the player.

And while City are chasing the Newcastle man, Kelechi Iheanacho could be heading in the opposite direction. The Mirror add that the Magpies “could be interested” in the 27-year-old after the Foxes confirmed his release by publishing their retained list on Friday.

Before his departure, Maresca said the city would have a “low-key” summer of business, meaning smart deals both inside and out were needed, with an expense and not an option. When it comes to improving the team, the midfield seems to be the area that needs the most attention.

With Dennis Praet gone, Yunus Akgun not returning from his loan spell and Wilfred Ndidi’s future up in the air, City are short of one advanced midfielder and there is no guarantee Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall stays. Even if the new manager doesn’t settle in the same way, City will need some forward-thinking midfielders. Even if Ndidi stays, he may return to operating in a defensive role now that City are playing at a higher level.

Like other Premier League clubs, City must consider the calculations of profitability and sustainability rules.

Would Longstaff be a good signing? Have your say in the comments below