As per one of the latest reports by The Sun, Leicester City are perceived to be desirous to lure Burnley’s winger, Johann Berg Gudmundsson, to King Power Stadium in the summer. Gudmundsson has been used regularly by Sean Dyche in his tactical nous and has been in a fine form this season. In fact, he has started every game since October and has played a key role in getting the Clarets to the top-half of the league table.
Apart from the Foxes, the 27-year-old has emerged as a subject of interest for two other Premier League clubs, namely, Newcastle United and Southampton. While Rafael Benitez is believed to be a massive fan of the Burnley man and is reportedly aiming to bag him in the summer to beef up his attacking arsenal, the Saints have been one of his long-term admirers and thus, it goes without saying that Leicester City would face tough competition to sign him.
Claude Puel’s side’s apparent interest to secure Gudmundsson’s services makes complete sense. Riyad Mahrez has been one of the stand-out players for them for quite some time now and frankly speaking, it took herculean efforts from Leicester City to not get tempted by the offers from other clubs to strike him off their books and sanction his exit in the January transfer window. However, the Algerian international might personally vouch for an exit from the club by hook or by crook in the summer and it would be wise from Leicester City to find a suitable replacement.
Although it would be really hard to fill Mahrez’s shoes in case he decides to leave, Gudmundsson could be an exciting option. The Iceland international has been an astute crosser this season and has made his presence felt in the final third, more often than not, with the attacking prowess that he has offered. Besides, he has been good with the set-pieces and has tested various goalkeepers of the opposition sides by shooting from close quarters as well as by manoeuvring long-rangers.
Gudmundsson has scored 2 goals and has notched up 6 assists from 29 Premier League appearances but his contract expires at the end of next season. However, Burnley have the power to exercise the option of keep him at Turf Moor for yet another season after that and thus, Leicester City will have to really push for him to ensure that he moves to King Power Stadium in the summer.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored