Super Eagles star, Kelechi Iheanacho, has stirred up exit speculations following his subdued response to Leicester City’s promotion back to the English Premier League, Soccernet.ng reports.
With an impressive display against Preston, Leicester clinched a 3-0 victory, thanks to a brace from Jamie Vardy and Kasey McAteer, marking their swift return to the Premier League just a year after relegation.
Despite the celebratory mood, Iheanacho has remained silent, refraining from any social media posts or comments, unlike his compatriot and club mate Wilfred Ndidi.
This silence has fueled rumours linking the former Manchester City forward with a departure from the King Power Stadium, with Crystal Palace and Turkish giants such as Fenerbahce, Trabzonspor, Galatasaray, and Besiktas reportedly eyeing him.
What’s the Issue with Iheanacho and Leicester?
Limited playing time has plagued the Super Eagles attacker since his return from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, reportedly due to his international commitments.
With just 10 starts in the 2023-24 season, questions arise over his form and impact, particularly as he has been absent from crucial games despite not being injured, raising doubts about a potential contract extension.
“Iheanacho broke through at the same time as Marcus Rashford, and the pair were compared when he was at City, but slowly, his form and impact have just waned,” remarked Dean Jones to Givemesports. “From a Leicester point of view, keeping him doesn’t seem a wise move as he is one of the higher earners in that side, and he has only started ten games in a season when they are going for a Championship promotion.”
This none attention from Enzo Maresca has sent a signal to Iheanacho who might not be happy with the lack of playing time
Will Iheanacho Move to the Premier League?
Crystal Palace has shown interest in signing Iheanacho, alongside Wilfred Ndidi and Raphael Onyedika.
However, adapting to a new environment in Turkey could pose challenges for an English-speaking player like Iheanacho.
Despite competition at Crystal Palace, with players like Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise excelling, Iheanacho’s versatility and knack for making an impact could secure him a place in the squad.