Leicester City In Battle For Experienced Free Agent

Leicester City are locked in a battle with fellow relegated side Southampton over the signing of experienced goalkeeper Asmir Begovic, according to Football Insider.

The 38-year-old has spent the majority of his career in the Premier League, making over 250 appearances in the top tier. However, he also has plenty of experience in the Championship and first helped Bournemouth reach the play-offs in 2021.

Although the Cherries failed to earn promotion that season, his form earned him a spot in the EFL Championship Team of the Season, and a move to Everton followed. However, he played second fiddle to England number one Jordan Pickford and opted to join Queens Park Rangers on a one-year deal at the end of his contract in 2023.

The former Bosnian international enjoyed an excellent spell at Loftus Road. He featured in all-but-one of their 46 league games, prompting the Hoops to attempt to extend his stay. They failed to agree terms though, which saw Begovic return to Everton last summer.

Begovic Set For Championship Return

Leicester will return to the Championship next season following their relegation from the Premier League. They are on the hunt for a new goalkeeper to add to their squad following the release of both Danny Ward and Daniel Iversen. Meanwhile, first choice shotstopper Mads Hermansen has emerged as a target for West Ham United.

It appears as if the Foxes are keen on Begovic to at least add options to their goalkeeping department, but face competition from Southampton. The Saints are also in need of reinforcements between the sticks following the release of backup goalkeeper Joe Lumley, whilst Aaron Ramsdale is expected to leave St Mary’s this summer.

Writer’s View

Despite being in the twilight of his career, Begovic is still a fantastic option for a club operating in the Championship. He knows that it is likely that he will have to accept a bit-part role but he can still provide a fantastic platform for younger players in the squad to learn from. There are not many teams in the EFL that would turn their noses up at having such a safe pair of hands on their bench to turn to in case of injury. This could be a great signing for either Leicester or Southampton.

 

RELATED ARTICLES

BE THE FIRST TO COMMENT

Leave a Reply