A couple of new signings seems like the only consolation that Claudio Ranieri could give to Leicester City fans at the moment. The Foxes have been terrible this season, both on the defensive and the offensive side of the game, and currently sit two positions above the relegation zone.
And the lack of any effective business in January has further increased the frustration in the club. Although it is difficult to point out any one reason for their faltering display, a subdued backline would definitely be a standout issue for the Foxes this season. They have conceded 37 goals this season winning only 42% of their average duels and Ranieri knows he cannot survive relegation with the current level.
According to reports, the Italian boss has offered £9m for Lazio central defender Wesley Hoedt. The 22-year-old Dutchman has been quite impressive in the Serie A, although he hasn’t seen much first team action this season. A game on the transfer deadline day could be unrestful for many and Ranieri has confirmed that he will have his phone switched on in the dug-out tonight at Turf Moor when his team play Burnley.
Ranieri also reportedly stated that while his focus is on the clash with the Clarets, he has given the club’s director of football Jon Rudkin his instructions and is confident Leicester City will bring someone in. He said, “My message (to Rudkin) is remember my words and try to do your best … I am sure he will do his best … No I don’t switch off my phone tomorrow. My phone is always on. If someone from my staff call me, I am available. It could be you see me on the bench (gestures to answer his phone). “I make the final decision on players. Yes, always it is my choice…”
One look at Hoedt and we’ll understand what this player would bring to Leicester’s back. Standing 6 ft 3 1⁄2 in tall, needless to say, the young Dutchman is quite domineering in the air winning 2.9 of his average duels. His excellent vision enables him to read the game brilliantly and his average passing accuracy of 87% makes him a complete centre-half.
He has appeared only eight times for Lazio so far this season, scoring once in the process, and might just seek a chance outside Italy for first-team action. Leicester’s Champions League status will be a compelling argument in Ranieri’s persuasion of the AZ Alkmaar youth product.
