Transfer Centre

Leicester City want Mohamed Elyounoussi to replace Riyad Mahrez?

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 21 March 2018

Basel winger Mohamed Elyounoussi has caught the attention of Leicester City in the past, according to the winger's former coach Ian Burchall.

Former Sarpsborg 08 coach Ian Burchall has revealed that Leicester City have looked into signing Basel's talented winger Mohamed Elyounoussi.

The Foxes are expected to be in the market for a new wideman this summer due to the uncertain future of Riyad Mahrez, who went on strike after missing out on a move to Manchester City in January.

Elyounoussi has now emerged as a possible replacement option for Leicester, as the Norway international's former assistant manager at Sarpsborg has confirmed that there has been interest shown in the past.

"When I was finishing my UEFA Pro Licence, I did a little study trip and spent five days in Leicester," he told the Nordic Football Podcast. "He was on their radar a while back. Publicly, as well. I think it was public knowledge that they were tracking him a little bit.

"They asked me about him and I said I really believed that he could play at that level. I was not surprised when he scored against Man City. I sent him a message because I was really proud of him.

"I had him when he was 18, 19 breaking into the first-team. What a talent. Forget his skills, his mentality - he is a tough kid mentally. He is ready to work and train and do extra. He is probably the best I have worked with at first-team level."

Right-footed winger Elyounoussi has scored seven goals and set up a further 13 in 34 appearances this term.