According to Daily Mail, Leicester City and AFC Bournemouth are going head to head in the race to sign Brentford defender Chris Mepham. As the English daily understands, Leicester have already seen their £10 million bid rejected while Bournemouth have also been denied in their attempts to sign the defensive stalwart.
Leicester, in particular, are believed to be contemplating on whether to make an improved offer as they look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the start of the new season.
Player profile and what he will offer
A product of the Brentford youth academy, Chris Mepham has seen an incredible rise in his stock since being promoted to the senior side last summer. As a matter of fact, the 20-year-old defender featured in as many as 21 matches even during the very first season of his professional career.
His breakthrough season with Brentford last campaign also earned him a couple of caps for Wales under Ryan Giggs. Mepham is a modern-day robust defender who is indeed a unique candidate in the defensive department.
While his massive 6 ft 3-inch figure makes him an intimidating presence for any opposing attacker, Mepham is also known for his composure and control on the ball, which is a rare asset for most players of his height. In fact, his assurance with the ball at his feet is arguably his biggest asset aside from his sheer physicality.
Tall, strong and assured, Chris Mepham can even emerge as one of Britain’s top defenders if his qualities in defence are nurtured well. And thus, a move to the Premier League could offer him the highest level of football he needs in order further improve himself as a defender.
Why Leicester City need Chris Mepham
Mepham will be an exciting signing for Leicester City for a number of reasons. First of which, is the simple fact that the Foxes are running the danger of losing English superstar Harry Maguire.
The former Hull City defender has grabbed a lot of eyeballs thanks to his incredible performances in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, which has attracted the interest of several top clubs across England.
In addition, Claude Puel’s men also lack depth in the defensive department with new signing Jonny Evans remaining their only reliable option in central defence should Maguire depart the King Power Stadium anytime in the near future. Thus, Mepham will not only prove to be a long-term replacement for the England international but will also add some much-needed depth to their defensive department.
Stat courtesy: Transfermarkt