Kelechi Iheanacho reportedly set to join Aston Villa following refusal of Leicester City contract offer

Kelechi Iheanacho poised to sign for Aston Villa after rejecting Leicester City's new contract offer


As Leicester City celebrate their Championship title win, speculation surrounds the future of Kelechi Iheanacho. The 27-year-old forward, whose contract is expiring soon, is facing a crucial stage in his career.

Iheanacho’s time at the King Power Stadium has been a mix of highs and lows, showcasing moments of brilliance alongside periods of challenges. In the current season, he has struggled to maintain consistent form, with just five league goals in 22 Championship appearances.

Despite his performance, Leicester City has offered Iheanacho a new contract, but reports suggest that he is likely to turn down the opportunity, as reported by Business Day.

Amidst this uncertainty, Aston Villa emerges as a potential destination for Iheanacho. The Premier League club is keen to secure his services, considering him as a backup option for star striker Ollie Watkins.


Aston Villa’s English striker #11 Ollie Watkins (L) vies with Arsenal’s Brazilian defender #06 Gabriel Magalhaes (C) and Arsenal’s Ukrainian defender #35 Oleksandr Zinchenko (R) during the English Premier League football match between Arsenal and Aston VIlla at the Emirates Stadium in London on April 14, 2024. (Photo by Adrian DENNIS / AFP)

Aston Villa eye Leicester striker Kelechi Iheanacho to be backup for Ollie Watkins next season

Villa, under Unai Emery’s management, have made a strong push for a UEFA Champions League spot, yet one of their weaknesses noted in this successful season is the lack of depth in attacking options.

Currently, 20-year-old Jhon Duran serves as Villa’s backup striker, with three goals in 20 Premier League appearances.

The allure of competing in the Champions League adds extra motivation for Iheanacho. This opportunity could inspire him to rediscover his top form and exhibit the skills that once made him a highly sought-after striker in the Premier League.