Transfer Talk: Five left-backs who could get the Foxes flying

A busy summer lies in store for Leicester and a new left-back could be top of Brendan Rodgers’ shopping list. 

The Foxes have been lacking in that department since Ben Chilwell joined Chelsea in August 2020, with the inexperienced Luke Thomas and injury-ridden Ryan Bertrand representing their only naturally left-sided options. 

As the East Midlands outfit prepare for tonight’s game against Norwich, we highlight five left-backs they could potentially target this summer. 

Aaron Hickey

Aaron Hickey has enjoyed a breakout campaign with Bologna in Serie A — and the 19-year-old Scottish international has been open about the possibility of seeking a new challenge. 

Speaking last week, he said: "I might want to challenge myself somewhere else and have a different experience, but who knows the future? 

"I do see a lot of talk. It's nice to know there's interest from other clubs, it gives you some confidence. But you just keep your head down and focus on football." 

Leicester would face stiff competition for the ex-Hearts defender — who has chipped in with five league goals this term — with Arsenal said to be favourites to secure his services.

Oleksandr Zinchenko

Another versatile left-back who could be on Leicester’s radar is Manchester City's Oleksandr Zinchenko.

There have been rumours that the Ukraine international could leave the Citizens — and it looks like he will need to if he is to secure more regular football. 

The 25-year-old has played just 818 Premier League minutes this season, which is hardly surprising given he is competing with the outstanding Joao Cancelo. 

Nonetheless, City's No11 has made some key contributions — including three assists — and would have plenty to offer Rodgers, including his ability to operate in midfield.

Marcelo

It would be something of a wildcard option, but how about a move for legendary Brazilian Marcelo? 

The Real Madrid captain — who recently became the most decorated player in the Spanish giants’ history — is set to become a free agent when his contract expires next month. 

The four-time Champions League winner turns 34 tomorrow, so would not be the long-term solution to Leicester’s left-back needs. 

But his age might mean there is less interest from Europe’s elite, making him a potential high-quality stop-gap for the Foxes.

Omar Richards

With Alphonso Davies ahead of him in the pecking order, Omar Richards was always likely to find his Bayern Munich involvement limited this season. 

And so it has proved, with the ex-Reading man seeing only 426 minutes of Bundesliga action so far. 

It was reported in March that the German champions would be open to selling the 24-year-old, who needs to be playing week in, week out if he is to fulfil his significant potential.

Jamal Lewis

Cut from Newcastle’s 25-man Premier League squad following the January transfer window, Jamal Lewis seems certain to be on his way out of St James’ Park this summer. 

And a fresh start could do the world of good for the 24-year-old defender, who has struggled to make an impact with the Magpies since signing from Norwich in September 2020. 

Liverpool were keen on Lewis before his switch to Tyneside, which shows the kind of regard in which the Northern Ireland international was held. 

Rodgers could be the coach to revive his previously promising career.