With the January transfer window fast approaching, Leicester City are gearing up for a crucial period of squad management.
Manager Ruud van Nistelrooy has been assured that funds will be available, raising the prospect of new arrivals at the King Power Stadium.
The window also presents an opportunity for the Foxes to cash in on players nearing the end of their contracts, while addressing gaps in the squad.
One such player whose future seems increasingly uncertain is Luke Thomas. The academy graduate’s time at Leicester appears to be nearing its end, and the January window represents the club’s last chance to secure a transfer fee for him before his contract expires in the summer.
Why Leicester Should Sell Luke Thomas
Thomas, who made his debut for Leicester in July 2020 as a 19-year-old, has struggled to establish himself as a first-team regular.
Despite a promising start to his career, the left-back has seen limited game time this season.
Aside from two Carabao Cup appearances, Thomas has made just one league outing – a 4-2 defeat at Brentford – and has fallen down the pecking order under Van Nistelrooy.
Loan spells have done little to revive his fortunes. A stint at Sheffield United ended prematurely, and he failed to make an impact during the first half of 2024 at Middlesbrough.
With his contract set to expire, a January departure would allow Leicester to recoup a fee, however modest, rather than losing him for nothing in the summer.
Potential Replacements for Thomas
Should Leicester offload Thomas, the club will need to address their limited options at left-back.
Victor Kristiansen remains the only senior specialist in the position, while James Justin, a versatile defender, could provide cover. However, Justin’s role may already be stretched given Ricardo Pereira’s long-term injury.
Japanese right-back Hiroki Sekine has been linked with a move to Leicester, which could free Justin to deputise on the left if needed.
Alternatively, the Foxes might look internally, with academy prospect Jayden Joseph emerging as a potential option.
Joseph is highly regarded within the club and tipped to make an impression in 2025, offering a promising long-term solution.
For Leicester, the January window represents both a challenge and an opportunity. Moving on from Thomas could allow the club to bring in reinforcements and pave the way for the next generation of talent at the King Power Stadium.
