The transfer window was fairly calm for Leicester City — until the chaotic deadline day kicked in. Even that frantic 24 hours, however, was managed with apparent poise and efficiency by the LCFC recruitment team and anyone else involved at King Power Stadium.
Don’t worry, I’m not about to praise Jon Rudkin anytime soon. Nevertheless, the Foxes’ activity in the market was, in a way, a remarkable success.
That said, a few targets slipped through Marti Cifuentes’ evolving and now constantly shifting Leicester squad. Rumors circulated about the Leicestershire club’s interest in signing a number of different footballers.
Some examples include: Calvin Stengs, Mihailo Ivanovic, Joao Rego, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi, Anton Saletros, William Bøving, Issa Kabore, and Jonas Omlin, to name a few.
Another player reportedly on the East Midlands side’s radar is, or was, a skilled and effective Championship winger. The individual in question currently plays for Portsmouth; with a twin brother active in the Premier League at Newcastle United.
While reports indicate Leicester wanted to bring in the Pompey star, they hesitated to actually make an offer for the 30-year-old. Still, LCFC could well return to pursue his signature in January 2026. What’s being claimed, and what’s our take?
Leicester City targeted Josh Murphy without placing a bid but may revisit the pursuit in the January window:
You may remember that I was firmly against Leicester signing a winger last month. Had Abdul Fatawu departed (heaven forbid), circumstances might have shifted. That scenario, however, never seemed likely.
“Portsmouth have plan to combat January move for Josh Murphy amid West Brom and Leicester City links” – [EFL Analysis]
Regardless, Josh Murphy is a wideman who could bolster a tier two promotion push. But his Portsmouth employers are keen to retain him and will reportedly try to do so with a better contract.
West Bromwich Albion submitted rejected bids. City maintain an interest. The Fratton Park side will need to move quickly to hold onto their star after New Year.