Exclusive: Leicester face Stephy Mavididi fight as clubs line up transfer bids
Leicester face a fight to keep hold of winger Stephy Mavididi this summer with a number of clubs at home and abroad, including Atalanta, Bologna and Villarreal ready to move for the skilful attacker, sources have told Football Insider.
Mavididi was one of Leicester’s shining lights last season in a disappointing campaign which ended in relegation from the Premier League.
The talented wide man contributed six goals and one assist across 33 appearances in all competitions, but four of his goals in the Premier League came from only 16 starts.
A number of sides are looking to capitalise on Leicester’s relegation by testing their resolve to keep hold of their best players, including Mavididi.
PSR may force Leicester to sell Stephy Mavididi
Serie A duo Atalanta and Bologna have been keeping tabs on Mavididi for some time as they look to bolster their attacking options, while Spanish side Villarreal are also admirers of the former Juventus man.
The Foxes could be forced to listen to offers for some of their prized assets due to concerns over Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) after being charged for further breaches last month
Mavididi began his career at Arsenal, but never made a senior appearance for the club before going on to Juventus, then Dijon and Montpellier.
The 27-year-old has the proud record of making more appearances in Ligue 1 than any other English player having spent four seasons in France’s top flight.
Mavididi joined Leicester in the summer of 2023 and helped them win promotion in his debut season scoring 13 goals and providing six assists.
Leicester facing uncertain future after Russell Martin rejection
With Jamie Vardy leaving Leicester, and Mavididi now garnering interest from several top European sides, the club are facing an uncertain start to life as a Championship team.
Adding to the confusion is the managerial situation at the King Power. O’Rourke revealed to Football Insider that Ruud van Nistelrooy is still expected to be sacked, even after Russell Martin rejected the club to instead take charge of Rangers.
Whilst fellow relegation sufferers Southampton have already appointed Will Still and are looking to start their rebuild immediately, the Foxes are in stasis.
Until a new man is appointed, it is difficult to see how Leicester can plan for life in the second-tier, and more importantly, plan for a return to England’s top-flight.