‘Done deal’ as Leicester prepare to announce striker signing ‘next week’

Dani Parejo, Patson Daka TEAMtalk

Leicester City have had their bid for Patson Daka accepted by Red Bull Salzburg and hope to announce his signing next week, it is claimed.

Daka has emerged as one of the most in-demand strikers in Europe after scoring 34 goals in 42 games for RB Salzburg last season. Liverpool and Chelsea were mentioned as contenders for his signature, for example. But Leicester have charged into the race to sign him and appear to have been victorious.

Reports from The Mirror at the weekend revealed that the Foxes had identified Daka as a top target in their search for a striker to help them in the long-term.

Then, earlier on Thursday, The Telegraph claimed that Leicester were ready to “step up” their efforts to sign Daka. The deal was predicted to reach £30m.

Their scouts were said to believe the Zambian could make a seamless transition to the Premier League. Therefore, they were ready to press ahead.

Things have developed quickly and it seems they have been successful. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Salzburg have accepted an “official proposal” from Leicester for Daka.

The 22-year-old could be announced as a new Leicester player “next week” if all goes to plan.

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As such, they have beaten off competition from Liverpool, Chelsea and also Salzburg’s sister club RB Leipzig.

Daka will help provide a long-term succession to Jamie Vardy. The Leicester legend is approaching the end of his career, with two years left on his contract, but still has something to give. Daka can play alongside him while he is still fit and firing before replacing him as the main man when the time comes.

It seems like the African striker could be another shrewd signing for Leicester, who have been very successful in the transfer market in recent history.


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Romano also confirmed that their pursuit of Daka means Leicester have ended their interest in Celtic striker Odsonne Edouard. Now, they are closing in on an alternative signing and it could be some good business.

Leicester seek Rodgers reunion with star

Another potential target for Leicester this summer is Philippe Coutinho. Brendan Rodgers previously got the best out of him at Liverpool, but the midfielder’s star has faded since his move to Barcelona.

His time at Camp Nou has been underwhelming and they are now ready to sell him. Indeed, Leicester could be potential suitors.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Leicester boss Rodgers is keen to get a deal done for Coutinho.

Leicester are apparently eyeing a move for the Brazilian and the reduced €20m asking price will be no problem. If a permanent transfer is not agreed then they will pursue a season-long loan deal.

They will, though, have to negotiate a reduction in the player’s wages.

Coutinho is understood to earn over £200,000 a week at the Camp Nou, dwarfing Leicester top earner Vardy’s £140,000-a-week deal.

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