Leicester City have reportedly knocked back an approach from Italian club Cremonese for defender Caleb Okoli, making it clear he is not for sale during the January window.
Okoli’s long term future at the King Power Stadium has been questioned at different stages of his time with the Foxes, with regular speculation linking him to a return to Italy. However, he is currently a key part of Leicester’s plans and has been starting matches in recent weeks.
Sky Italia transfer specialist Gianluca Di Marzio has revealed that Leicester immediately rejected Cremonese’s interest in the 24 year old. While it remains unclear whether the proposal was for a loan or a permanent deal, City’s firm response means Okoli will not be heading back to a club where he enjoyed success earlier in his career.
The centre back spent time on loan at Cremonese from Atalanta and made 27 appearances as he helped them secure promotion from Serie B. Since then, the Italian side have experienced both relegation and promotion and now find themselves competing well in Serie A, sitting 12th after 17 matches despite pre season predictions of a struggle. Former Leicester striker Jamie Vardy is also currently part of their squad.
At Leicester, Okoli has started the last three games alongside Ben Nelson, keeping Jannik Vestergaard out of the starting line up on New Year’s Day. Vestergaard, who was recovering from a head injury, was named among the substitutes instead.
Leicester are understood to be reluctant to sanction Okoli’s departure due to ongoing injury concerns surrounding Harry Souttar, as well as uncertainty over Wout Faes’ future. The Belgian defender is believed to be exploring a move away in an effort to improve his chances of securing a place at the World Cup.
Faes was left out of the matchday squad at Bramall Lane for the first time this season, with younger options such as Bade Aluko and Wanya Marcal preferred on the bench, a decision that may signal the end of his time at the club.
Meanwhile, Julian Carranza was also missing as preparations continue to terminate his Leicester loan, with the forward expected to complete a permanent move from Feyenoord to Mexican outfit Necaxa.