Adrian Clarke looks at what Leicester City need to do in the summer transfer window to improve their squad.
Leicester City
Recruiting a new head coach will be the Foxes’ priority in the coming days, and their strategy in the transfer market is likely to be dependent on the decision they make.
Based on last season’s campaign though, bringing in a proven Premier League centre-forward will surely be a priority, no matter which tactical direction they follow.
Jamie Vardy was once again Leicester’s top scorer, with 18 Championship goals, but the 37-year-old is likely to be used sparingly in top-flight football.
None of the club’s other front men shone last season, with Patson Daka the next in line, scoring only seven goals. Former Everton youngster Tom Cannon has promise, but the acquisition of a natural goalscorer feels vital on their return to the highest level. In a side blessed with quality wingers on both flanks, I would anticipate the new head coach adding a forward who is strong in the air.
At the other end of the pitch, they cannot afford to rest on their laurels either. Leicester may have boasted the best defensive record in last season’s Championship, but that does not mean reinforcements at the back are not required.
Since the turn of the year their off-the-ball work dipped, leading to Leicester keeping only five clean sheets across their last 21 league matches. Centre-backs Jannik Vestergaard and Wout Faes were more exposed and, in truth, both also struggled the last time they played Premier League football. Therefore, at least one quick new central defender is needed, perhaps two.
In front of them, Leicester did not have to rely on a strong ball-winning defensive midfielder, such was their dominance of matches in the Championship. This will change from August onwards, so Harry Winks (1.63 tackles and 0.82 interceptions per 90) would benefit from an athletic partner alongside him to help recover the ball.
Key areas to target: Centre-back, defensive midfield, centre-forward
Ins and outs so far
| Player | Transfer Type | Club | Full Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Marc Albrighton |  Released |
- | Details |
| Kelechi Iheanacho | Released |
- | Details |
| Dennis Praet | Released |
- | Details |
(Last updated: 7 June)