Newcastle United could sign Leicester City forward Kelechi Iheanacho this summer as they strive to bolster their team. The Mirror (9 June, Page 73) reported that Newcastle United could sign Leicester City forward Kelechi Iheanacho this summer. The Magpies are reportedly looking to sign the Nigerian striker later this year.
Iheanacho’s Latest Season At Leicester City, Iheanacho had an up-and-down season, putting in a number of brilliant performances but struggling to be consistent in the final third. Last season, the Nigerian prodigy appeared in 26 matches for the Foxes, scoring six goals and providing two assists in all competitions. In the EFL Championship, the 27-year-old averaged 1.3 shots, 0.7 critical passes, and 0.6 dribbles per 90 minutes despite coming off the bench the majority of the time. He has also distributed the ball relatively well, completing 86.7% of his attempted passes in league football (data from whoscored).
His current deal at the King Power Stadium expires at the end of this month, which might allow Newcastle to recruit him on a free transfer later this summer. What Will Iheanacho Bring to Newcastle United? Iheanacho excels at generating space for himself to score goals. He has a lot of power in his shot attempts and can generate the occasional opportunity for his teammates up top. The Nigerian international is also a formidable ball runner. However, he must find a method to be more consistent in front of the opponent’s net.
We should anticipate Iheanacho to provide skill and depth to Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe’s team. He has what it takes to be a valuable rotational player for the Magpies in the coming seasons. At the age of 27, Iheanacho is entering his peak and has the potential to be a valuable member of the Newcastle squad. Therefore, it makes sense for Howe to try to bring the Nigerian attacker to St. James’ Park on a free transfer later this summer. However, Iheanacho is not talented enough to compete with Alexander Isak for a regular first-team berth in Newcastle next season.
