As the January transfer window approaches, Leicester City find themselves in a strong yet delicate position. After making a solid return to the Premier League, Enzo Maresca’s side have proven that their possession-based style and tactical discipline can compete at the top level. However, recent performances have also exposed two critical areas of concern — the need for defensive reinforcement and an additional goal-scoring option. If Leicester are to maintain momentum and avoid being dragged into a relegation battle, their January business will be crucial.
The first and perhaps most pressing issue lies at the heart of defence. Leicester’s backline, while composed and technically sound, lacks the depth and physical dominance required for the long Premier League grind. Wout Faes has been consistent, but injuries and inconsistency elsewhere have left the Foxes vulnerable. Jannik Vestergaard, once frozen out, has enjoyed a revival but still struggles with pace against more dynamic attackers. Meanwhile, Conor Coady’s early-season injury highlighted just how thin Leicester are in that department.
To address this, the Foxes should target a reliable, Premier League-proven centre-back capable of leading from the back. Someone like Bournemouth’s Lloyd Kelly, who has been linked with several top-flight clubs, could be an excellent fit. His versatility to play both centrally and at left-back would suit Maresca’s fluid defensive system. Alternatively, a loan move for a young, hungry defender from a top-six club — such as Chelsea’s Trevoh Chalobah or Arsenal’s Jakub Kiwior — could provide quality without breaking the bank.
Equally significant is the issue at the other end of the pitch. Leicester have shown flashes of attacking brilliance, but the absence of a consistent goal-scorer has been glaring. Jamie Vardy’s experience remains invaluable, yet at 38, his minutes must be managed carefully. Kelechi Iheanacho’s inconsistency in front of goal has also made it difficult for the Foxes to sustain attacking rhythm. Patson Daka, once seen as Vardy’s heir, has struggled for form and confidence, often finding himself out of favour.
With that in mind, Leicester must seriously consider bringing in a new striker in January. One realistic option could be Coventry City’s Viktor Gyökeres, though he may come with a hefty price tag. Alternatively, Leicester could explore a short-term solution in the form of a loan deal — perhaps someone like Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah, who has the pace and pressing instincts to thrive under Maresca. Another intriguing possibility might be Brentford’s Neal Maupay, whose tenacity and work rate would complement Leicester’s system.
Beyond the immediate need for a defender and striker, Leicester could also benefit from adding a creative midfielder to share the burden with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Wilfred Ndidi. Someone with versatility, such as Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White or a loan swoop for Manchester City’s James McAtee, could add depth and creativity in the final third.
Ultimately, Leicester’s January transfer strategy must be pragmatic and targeted. They do not need an overhaul, but they do require a couple of smart, impactful additions to balance their squad. Strengthening the defence and adding a clinical forward could make the difference between survival and another relegation scare. With careful planning and ambition, the Foxes can turn January into a defining month of their Premier League campaign — one that stabilises their return and sets the tone for long-
term success.
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