The former assistant coach of Mohamed Elyounoussi has confirmed reports that Leicester City are interested in securing the services of the Norwegian midfielder this summer. According to recent reports, the Foxes are looking for potential replacements for Riyad Mahrez and could make a move for the Norwegian international’s signature when the summer transfer window opens at the end of the season.
The FC Basel winger has put in some dazzling displays during the course of this season which has not gone unnoticed. Elyounoussi has made 34 appearances for the Swiss outfit this season, scoring 7 goals while providing 13 assists in all competitions. One of his goals was against Manchester City in FC Basel’s Champions League win at the Etihad Stadium earlier this month.
The 23-year-old, who is also known by the nickname ‘Moi’, has been linked with the Foxes in recent times and the player’s former assistant coach Ian Burchall has confirmed their interest in a recent interview. He was quoted to have said, “When I was finishing my Uefa Pro Licence, I did a little study trip and spent five days in Leicester,”
“He was on their radar a while back. Publicly, as well. I think it was public knowledge that they were tracking him a little bit. They asked me about him and I said I really believed that he could play at that level.
“I was not surprised when he scored against Man City. I sent him a message because I was really proud of him. I had him when he was 18, 19 breaking into the first-team. What a talent.
“Forget his skills, his mentality – he is a tough kid mentally. He is ready to work and train and do extra. He is probably the best I have worked with at first-team level.”
Claude Puel’s side are currently sitting in 8th place in the Premier League standings with a tally of 40 points in 30 matches. They are too far away from the ‘Big Six’ of the Premier League but a top 7 finish this season is very much on the cards. The addition of Elyounoussi will undoubtedly bolster Claude Puel’s attacking options ahead of the new campaign as they look to challenge for a European place next season.
The Norway international is highly versatile and can operate in a number of different positions across the midfield. The right-footed winger is primarily deployed on the left flank but can play in the number 10 position as well which makes him a perfect fit for the Foxes. At 23, he still has his peak years ahead of him which the West Midlands club can look to utilise in the coming years.
It remains to be seen what lies ahead in the future of Elyounoussi and whether he ends up making a switch to the King Power Stadium in the near future.
