Joe Bryan (Getty Images)
According to The Sun, Leicester City are interested in signing Fulham star Joe Bryan in a bid to bolster their backline ahead of the new campaign.
The report suggests that the Foxes are preparing for life after Ben Chilwell, who has joined Chelsea. It also claims that the Cottagers are willing to sell Bryan for £15m as they have already signed Antonee Robinson earlier this month.
Born in England, Bryan flourished through the ranks of Bristol City’s youth system but spent the majority of his earlier career on loan spells with Bath City and Plymouth. However, he returned to his parent club in the summer of 2013 and established himself as an integral member of the squad.
After making 230 appearances for the Robins, he was signed by Fulham for £6m in the summer of 2018. Though he initially struggled with injuries at Craven Cottage, he became a key figure of the team last season, appearing in all but three Championship games.
The Englishman was the hero for Fulham in the Championship playoff final as his two extra-time goals helped them get promoted to the top-flight at the expense of Brentford. He has been in sensational form in the last few seasons and has been consistent.
At the moment, Brendan Rodgers has two left-backs available at his disposal now that Chilwell has departed the club.
Christian Fuchs and Luke Thomas are the two other left-backs available. The Austrian is already 34 and has just one more year left on his contract. Thomas just broke into the senior team and did a decent job but he is inexperienced and cannot be depended upon throughout the campaign. Thus, they should consider signing a left-back this summer.
In that regard, Bryan would be a smart signing by the Foxes. The former Bristol City man seems to be in the form of his life. He scored 3 goals and 8 assists across all competitions last season. He played a key role in Fulham’s promotion to the top-flight.
Moreover, he has made over 300 appearances in English football and his experience could be a massive boost to Leicester if they lose Chilwell. He is equally good while going forward and also in defensive situations. He could be a perfect replacement for Chilwell.
With Chilwell gone and Fuchs beyond his prime, it is clear that the Foxes are in dire need of a left-back. And Bryan, who is in sensational could provide them with some much-needed quality. Thus, they should lure the Englishman to King Power Stadium this summer.