Crystal Palace step up pursuit of Super Eagles striker Iheanacho as transfer window starts to close

ENGLISH Premier League side Crystal Palace is stepping up plans to sign Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho from relegated Leicester City before the close of the current summer transfer window.

Iheanacho, 26, who was Leicester City's leading goal scorer last season, has become the subject of several bids after the club was relegated to the second tier of English football last season. With just two weeks of the current window still left open, Palace have stepped to finalise the deal as the club looks to strengthen its attack with the 2023/24 season now fully underway.

Despite Iheanacho's commendable performances last season, Leicester City were relegated to the Championship. He has continued this good form in the Championship this season too, as under the management of Marco Maresca, Iheanacho has been a key contributor for the Foxes, featuring in the starting line-up for the past three games across all competitions.

Iheanacho’s current contract at the King Power Stadium has only one year remaining but Maresca has suggested that negotiations for a new deal might commence shortly. Mr Maresca highlighted the need for discussions involving all parties concerned, emphasising the importance of understanding Iheanacho’s desires and intentions.

He added: “This is one of the things on the table. It’s one of the things we need to discuss with the player. Most of the time, we think about the club but we need to see the desire of the player.

During the last campaign, Iheanacho’s outstanding contributions earned him the Leicester City Player of the Season award. Even if the club offer him a new contract, the striker will most likely want to remain in the Premier League.