Leicester move in for Baggies’ defender Evans

LEICESTER have triggered Jonny Evans’ £3 million release clause and are close to signing the defender from West Brom.

The Foxes have moved to seal a bargain deal after Albion’s Premier League relegation, it is understood.

They are confident of completing the move having been long-term admirers of the 30-year-old.

Leicester failed with several bids last summer as the Baggies rejected their offers, the final one close to £23m.

But because of West Brom’s drop into the Championship, Evans is available for a cut-price £3m and is expected to leave The Hawthorns.

Arsenal had an approach rejected in January as the Baggies kept Evans for their failed relegation fight last season.

Manchester City tried to sign him last summer but could not agree a fee with Albion, with a move back to the north west believed to have interested Evans.

He joined Albion for £6m rising to £8m from Manchester United in 2015 and was installed as captain by former manager Tony Pulis.

He failed to start Albion’s final six games under Darren Moore but has made 96 appearances and scored five goals for the club.

Leicester are revamping their defence with Robert Huth having been released while captain Wes Morgan will be 35-years-old at the end of next season.

Boss Claude Puel is being backed in the transfer market with his position now safe after doubts at the end of last term.

England and Tottenham man Eric Dier could play in defence.