Exclusive: Liverpool dealt blow as Leicester target Atletico bound but deal could have James Maddison knock-on effect

Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, Jannik Vestergaard and Caglar Soyuncu of Leicester

TEAMtalk has learned that a surprising Liverpool centre-back target is seemingly bound for LaLiga and Atletico Madrid as his contract runs down.

Leicester star Caglar Soyuncu is the player in question, with the Foxes defender set to be available on a free transfer in the summer, alongside his highly-rated club teammate Youri Tielemans.

Turkey international Soyuncu was an in-demand asset for Leicester just 18 months ago. Indeed, there were significant rumours that Manchester United were lining up a swoop for the 26-year-old.

However, he has fallen out of favour with Brendan Rodgers and will now be allowed to move on for nothing.

Recent reports emerged about Liverpool and Newcastle’s interest in the rugged stopper. But we’ve been told that there is a strong likelihood that Soyuncu ends up in Spain instead.

Transfer insider Graeme Bailey told us: “Eighteen months ago Calgary Soyuncu was seen as one of the Premier League’s top defenders. But now he is going to be leaving Leicester for nothing.

“He will be leaving the King Power on a Bosman alongside Youri Tielemans. And there is no getting away from the fact how frustrated and annoyed the club is.

“I am told that losing such talent, who you could estimate their value at close to £100m on the opening market, has not gone down well within the corridors of power. And they realise they can’t allow this to happen again.

“Safe to say, this could impact on others such as James Maddison. As to say if he does reject their offer of a new contract it would mean a summer sale, as they would be loathed to lose yet another talent for nothing.”

Maddison knock-on effect

The Maddison line is certainly an interesting one, with Newcastle, Tottenham and even Manchester United all linked to the England playmaker.

Indeed, it appears that Leicester are likely to be forced into a sale if, as indicated, Maddison decides against extending his stay at the King Power.

Newcastle have recently emerged as firm favourites to land the player. However, a Spurs side lacking any sort of midfield creativity cannot be completely ruled out of the running.

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