Leicester City’s January transfer window has been moving at a frustratingly slow pace. While Championship rivals and Premier League clubs get business done in a lively market, the Foxes appear unsure about who to sell, what fees to accept and where to reinvest. Decisive action, either by committing fully to new deals or clearing out unwanted players, feels more important than ever.
One piece of business was completed earlier this week when Leicester offloaded Wout Faes, a defender who never truly lived up to expectations. The Belgium international has joined AS Monaco on loan, landing a move to the south of France despite his struggles in England.
Faes endured two difficult spells in the Premier League, with only a solid Championship campaign under former boss Enzo Maresca offering any real respite. His time at the King Power Stadium is unlikely to be remembered fondly, if at all. Once again, Leicester have sanctioned a deal that includes an option to buy rather than a guaranteed sale, raising familiar questions about their transfer strategy.
Leicester City unlikely to recoup full fee for Wout Faes
Faes is not short on ability and has never lacked confidence, but his repeated errors and perceived lack of urgency eventually wore thin with the Leicester support. Now, he faces the task of impressing a new fanbase if he wants to secure a permanent future in Ligue 1.
Monaco have confirmed they hold an option to buy the centre back at the end of the season, with L’Equipe reporting the fee could fall between €5 million and €10 million. Even at the upper end of that range, it would be well below the £15 million Leicester paid Reims in 2022. However, from a Profit and Sustainability perspective, Leicester would still benefit financially if the deal is completed.