Leicester are considering granting Hamza Choudhury permission to seal a late move before the January transfer window closes, amid interest from Newcastle United and Watford.
That’s according to the Daily Mail, who note Choudhury has an uncertain future at the King Power Stadium. Brendan Rodgers is mulling over late changes to his Foxes squad ahead of the market shutting on Monday. He ideally wants to sign at least one centre-back on loan.
Choudhury is among a few names Rodgers is also weighing up moving on in late deals. Newcastle and Watford are on alert to his potential availability, as well, as they duel in the transfer market. Both are desperate to strengthen amid a Premier League relegation fight.
The Daily Mail first reported Newcastle and Watford’s interest in a transfer for Choudhury last week. The relegation rivals are keen to loan the Watford enforcer for the remainder of the season. They like the midfielder’s versatility, having also played in defence this term.
Rodgers has sometimes fielded Choudhury at centre-half as the Foxes manage a defensive injury crisis. But the King Power boss wants to sign a proven option. He was also reluctant to let the 24-year-old leave in the winter market, yet has seemingly now eased his position.
Leicester additionally acknowledge it would be hard to bench Choudhury after stepping up when needed. While the Loughborough-born anchor has so far only featured four times in the Premier League this season. Three of his outings have also come following Christmas.
Newcastle can sign Leicester midfielder Choudhury, who ‘destroys’ danger
Newcastle could now swoop on the King Power to sign Choudhury from Leicester before Monday’s transfer deadline passes. The Toon admire his versatility and would hope he can offer Eddie Howe another imposing presence to protect what has been a leaky defence.
Choudhury has traditionally fared best in a holding midfield role, which may prove vital for the Toon’s survival chances. Former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison has also hailed the ex-England Under-21 international for his work shielding the Foxes backline previously.
“What Choudhury gives you is that he can sniff out danger,” Morrison once told BBC Radio 5 Live. “He destroys it and can make a tackle, but he’s also really good on the ball.”
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