Leicester City's promotion back to the Premier League was confirmed on Saturday, sparking celebrations at the King Power Stadium. However, amidst the jubilation, a subtle air of uncertainty surrounded Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho, whose future with the Foxes appears increasingly unlikely.
Iheanacho's contract expires in approximately two months, and his departure seems imminent. This was further hinted at when the striker was spotted sporting a t-shirt with the inscription, ‘We've got history. When I'm gone, you gonna miss me' following the final game of the season against Blackburn Rovers.
Limited playing time and contract impasse hint at Iheanacho exit
While Kelechi Iheanacho's lack of playing time throughout the season has been a major factor, it's understood that Aston Villa have long held an interest in the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Ball winner. Their pursuit of a backup striker to Ollie Watkins makes the Nigeria international a prime target, potentially reuniting him with his former Leicester City teammate Youri Tielemans.
Three years ago, Villa attempted to sign Iheanacho, but a move never materialized. Now, with his contract expiring and Leicester seemingly prepared to move on, the conditions seem ripe for a transfer.
Despite Leicester's immediate promotion, Iheanacho's season was underwhelming by his own standards. Competition from Patson Daka and Jamie Vardy limited his opportunities, resulting in just 26 appearances across all competitions, with 5 goals and 6 assists to his name.
Competing offers and Leicester's move-on stance
The former Manchester City man’s lack of regular playing time has also attracted interest from other clubs, including West Ham in England and Turkish side Galatasaray. Reports suggest that Leicester's initial offer for a contract extension was rejected by Kelechi Iheanacho, further signifying his desire for a new challenge.
Another subtle hint regarding Iheanacho's future came during the team's post-promotion celebrations.
Kelechi Iheanacho's cryptic comments and uncertain future
When asked about their next moves, teammate Wilfred Ndidi emphatically declared “Premier League,” while Iheanacho, with a hint of emotion, simply stated, “I don't know what next for me.”
This response adds weight to the speculation surrounding his departure. Notably, Iheanacho fell out of favour upon his return from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, managing a mere 57 minutes out of a possible 1,350 in the Championship.
In an exclusive interview with content creator Nabila Fash, Iheanacho expressed his mixed emotions: “I feel good, I feel great, it's a massive achievement,” he said regarding Leicester's promotion. However, when asked about his future, his response was a telling, “I don't know for now, I'm still a Leicester City player.”
While Ghanaian teammate Abdul Fatawu playfully insisted Iheanacho wasn't being entirely honest, the striker's cryptic comments and recent actions point toward a farewell.
A fond farewell after 61 goals and FA Cup and Community Shield triumph
Having signed from Manchester City in 2017, Kelechi Iheanacho leaves Leicester after scoring 61 goals in 232 appearances across all competitions. His time with the Foxes saw him contribute to their historic FA Cup and Community Shield triumph in 2021, a moment forever etched in the club's memory.
As Iheanacho prepares to close the Leicester chapter, the upcoming summer transfer window will unveil his next destination. Whether he reunites with Youri Tielemans at Aston Villa or embarks on a new adventure elsewhere, the Nigerian forward's future holds intrigue and the promise of a fresh start.
