Everton’s rivals, Leicester City, are reportedly close to finalising a deal to appoint Steve Cooper as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming season.
Negotiations are in the final stages after the 44-year-old emerged as the Premier League club’s preferred candidate, surpassing others like former Brighton and Chelsea boss Graham Potter.
Cooper, a Welshman, has been out of work since being sacked by Nottingham Forest last December. During his tenure of just over two years at Forest, he struggled in the latter part of his stint, leaving the club in 17th place after securing only one win in 13 matches. His overall record at Forest included 108 games with a 39% win success rate.
Leicester City’s search for a new head coach began after Enzo Maresca, who led them to an immediate return to the Premier League by winning the Championship, departed to join Chelsea. Despite their successful campaign under Maresca, Leicester face a period of uncertainty and significant changes.
The Foxes clinched promotion with an impressive 97 points, earning widespread praise for their style of play and quality throughout the season.
However, with Cooper’s imminent arrival, Leicester will be navigating some turbulent waters. The club is expected to begin the season under financial constraints, facing a potential points deduction over profit and sustainability breaches. This adds pressure on Cooper, who would likely face a challenging start as his team chases the rest of the league.
Last season, Everton experienced a similar fate, with eight points deducted for breaching profit and sustainability rules. A strong run of form in the latter part of the season saved them from a relegation battle, a scenario Cooper will hope to avoid with Leicester.
Leicester’s squad includes promising young talents like Kieran Dewsbury-Hall, Abdul Fatawu, and Stephy Mavididi. However, the club’s financial issues raise questions about the futures of some players and how much they can invest in new signings.
Reinforcements are needed to bolster a squad that nearly squandered a substantial lead built up from a stunning first half of the season.
Cooper’s task will be to harness this young talent while navigating the financial and competitive pressures of the Premier League. His previous experience at Nottingham Forest will be crucial, though he will need to adapt quickly to the challenges at Leicester.
According to Sky Sports, Cooper is the main candidate for the role and is close to agreeing a deal, which could see him take the helm in time for pre-season preparations.
In a campaign that promises to be filled with ups and downs, Leicester City fans will be hoping Cooper can replicate the success he had in his earlier managerial career, while overcoming the immediate hurdles posed by financial constraints and a potential points deficit. His appointment is eagerly awaited, as the club looks to secure its footing in the Premier League and build a squad capable of competing at the highest level.