Leicester City’s hopes of quickly boosting their attacking options were recently dealt a blow at the final hurdle. The Foxes had been assessing Michail Antonio, but the move fell through after the striker picked up an injury while training with the club. Some observers may feel that Leicester avoided a potential risk, given Antonio’s long history of fitness issues and the serious car accident he was involved in just over a year ago. Even so, a fully fit Antonio could have been an ideal short-term answer to the club’s problems in front of goal.
With that option now off the table, manager Marti Cifuentes has acknowledged that alternative solutions must be explored. Leicester’s current attacking resources have struggled to convince. Julian Carranza, who arrived on loan, failed to make an impact and has already departed. Patson Daka is not seen as a reliable option at Championship level, while Jordan Ayew, who prefers operating out wide, has often delivered inconsistent performances. As a result, there is growing hope among supporters that the club will look outside the existing squad rather than relying on further makeshift solutions.
That context has added fuel to rumours linking West Ham striker Callum Wilson with a possible move to the King Power Stadium. Reports suggest Wilson could be available due to uncertainty surrounding his contract, which on paper might offer Leicester an opening.
The experienced forward, who has been capped by England, would appear to tick many boxes in terms of leadership and quality. However, a move to Leicester still looks unlikely. Wilson has spent most of his career in the Premier League and may feel he remains suited to that level. In addition, top-flight clubs are expected to show interest if he does become available.
There is at least some encouragement for Leicester fans. Transfer expert and Foxes supporter Ben Jacobs has stated that Wilson is on the club’s radar. The difficulty lies in the financial reality. Leicester would only be able to pursue the deal if Wilson became a free agent, as paying a transfer fee is not considered viable. West Ham are reportedly in discussions about ending the striker’s current contract.
Even then, Leicester face stiff competition. Clubs from the Saudi Pro League are believed to be monitoring Wilson’s situation, with teams such as Al-Shabab and possibly Al-Ettifaq showing interest. That level of financial power could easily put the move beyond Leicester’s reach.
As Jacobs explained, Saudi clubs are tracking Wilson closely, but Championship sides should also be watched. Leicester’s interest would depend entirely on the player being available on a free transfer, as they are unwilling or unable to meet any fee demanded by West Ham.