Leicester City are targeting five major transfer moves this week as manager Russell Martin rebuilds his squad ahead of their Carabao Cup clash with Northampton Town. Fresh off signing Liam Cullen and Tommy Watson, the Foxes want immediate defensive and attacking reinforcements.
Martin demands serious firepower up front before competitive football returns to LE2. Slovenian striker Admir Bristrić is closing in on a £1.4m move from Olimpija Ljubljana, with a medical scheduled this week after missing his side’s victory against Aluminij. The 23-year-old scored 13 goals on loan at NK Bravo last season and has drawn comparisons to Edin Dzeko. Leicester are also hunting Leyton Orient hitman Dom Ballard to further strengthen the attack. Valued at £5m, Ballard struck 23 goals last term, though Orient boss Richie Wellens confirmed a warm-up injury on Sunday that adds late complications.
Swansea attacking midfielder Ollie Cooper could also join Martin’s setup on loan. Swans boss Vitor Matos confirmed Cooper is set to leave, with the 26-year-old having played 44 times under Martin during the 2022/23 season.
Defensive restructuring is equally urgent for James McCarron and the Foxes hierarchy. Rangers centre-back John Souttar was left out of Derek McInnes’ squad against Dundee United, placing Leicester in pole position to land the 29-year-old defender. His arrival could unite him with brother Harry Souttar, who captained Leicester in Saturday’s 1-0 friendly defeat against Coventry City. However, Sheffield United manager Chris Wilder remains keen on re-signing Harry. While Martin wants to keep his dominant defender, a £10m valuation could see Leicester do business.
With Cullen making his first impression against Genoa and Watson joining from Brighton, Leicester’s squad transformation is moving at full speed. The clock is ticking before Northampton arrive at the King Power Stadium. Martin knows early momentum is vital, and completing these deals this week will give Leicester the tactical spine required to fight for immediate success.
