Marti Cifuentes is keenly aware that Leicester City’s star performers, including the highly coveted playmaker Bilal El Khannouss, might be enticed away due to considerable Premier League attention.
El Khannouss, Abdul Fatawu, and Harry Winks played crucial roles in clinching Cifuentes’ inaugural victory as City manager on Sunday, yet speculation about their potential exits has surged in the past 48 hours.
By starting El Khannouss and Fatawu and bringing on Winks after halftime, Cifuentes underscored their significance to his vision for the squad.
Despite the manager’s probable wish to retain his leading talents, he acknowledges the stark truth that keeping them may not be viable.
El Khannouss, who was instrumental with two assists in the 2-1 triumph, has now piqued the interest of Newcastle United, in addition to attention from Leeds United and Sunderland. The Moroccan virtuoso is valued at approximately £30m, according to Leicestershire Live. Fatawu is reportedly being monitored by Everton, while Winks has drawn interest from Valencia.
“We always have these conversations and always as a manager you have some players you might think are more important for the way you want to play,” Cifuentes remarked.
“But as well you have to understand there is the reality in terms of the value that the market gives to certain players. But we do have these kinds of conversations.
“All good players will attract interest. It’s not just about Bilal, who is an excellent player. He did very well providing the two assists.
“But the process will always be the same. If someone leaves, it is my job to try to see how we can use the strengths and the quality in the squad. If I think we need something, I will look into the academy to see if we can find a player who can do this role. If not, then we go to the market.”