Leicester City may soon face difficult decisions in the transfer market, as financial challenges loom large over the club.
Despite avoiding immediate sanctions after being charged with breaching spending rules during the three years leading up to the 2022/23 season, the Foxes remain in a precarious position.
The club narrowly won their PSR (Profitability and Sustainability Rules) case, thanks to the expertise of Nick De Marco, but a £90m loss recorded in their 2022/23 accounts underscores the severity of their financial troubles.
Adam Williams, Head of Football Content, Business, Finance & Governance at TBR, recently shed light on the issue while speaking to Leicester City News.
He explained:
“The only published set of accounts we have which are now relevant to their 2024-25 calculation – i.e., the three-year period up to the 30th June 2025 – are the 2022-23 books, which showed a £90m loss.
“That is basically the same as they lost in the previous season. It will be more challenging this season, however, as Leicester’s allowable loss is £83m because they spent one of the last three seasons in the Championship.”
Williams further predicted that Leicester’s January transfer window could see more outgoings than arrivals, saying:
“If I had to make a forecast, I would say you’re more likely to see sales outweigh new arrivals in January.”
With this grim outlook in mind, Leicester may be forced to sell key players to ease their financial burden. Here are three potential departures this winter:
Mads Hermansen
Since arriving at Leicester, Hermansen has impressed with his performances in goal, despite keeping only one Premier League clean sheet this season.
The 24-year-old has caught the attention of clubs, including Chelsea, where Enzo Maresca is reportedly keen on a reunion. With a rumoured £35m valuation, selling Hermansen could provide Leicester with much-needed funds.
Boubakary Soumare
Soumare’s Leicester career has been inconsistent, but his recent displays, including a strong showing in the win against West Ham United, have reminded fans of his potential.
However, the French midfielder’s value makes him a logical candidate for sale. Sevilla, who tried to sign him in the summer, could return with an offer, presenting Leicester with an opportunity to cash in.
Michael Golding
Golding, an 18-year-old midfielder signed from Chelsea in the summer, has yet to make his senior debut for Leicester.
Despite being a promising talent, his lack of first-team opportunities may lead to a January departure.
While his sale would bring in a relatively modest fee, it could help address Leicester’s financial concerns and free up resources.
Leicester’s situation is a stark reminder of the challenges clubs face in balancing ambition with fiscal responsibility.
With Premier League survival at stake and financial pressures mounting, the January transfer window could be pivotal for the Foxes as they seek to navigate their way back to stability.
Whether selling key players will be enough remains to be seen, but tough choices undoubtedly lie ahead for the Midlands club.
