Leicester to spend big again

Craig Shakespeare has revealed that Leicester City could smash their transfer record again this summer.

Shakespeare is involved in recruitment strategy, despite not knowing whether he will be given the manager’s job permanently, and he admitted that last season’s champions were prepared to spend big as they pursue a return to European football.

Leicester shattered their transfer record three times last year, with Islam Slimani the most expensive signing at £28 million. And after reaching the quarter-finals of the Champions League, Leicester are targeting high-profile signings in their attempt to challenge for a topfour place next season. Swansea’s Gylfi Sigurdsson, Middlesbrough captain Ben Gibson and Anderlecht defender Kara Mbodji are understood to be targets.

When asked if there was a chance Leicester could break their transfer record, Shakespeare said: “There could be. It doesn’t need major surgery… but I expect a few going and a few coming.” On his own job prospects he added: “The last thing the players want is me moping around thinking it’s about me. It’s about the club finishing as high as possible, I’m part of that.”

Midfielder Danny Drinkwater has been ruled out for the season with a thigh injury, while defender Wes Morgan (groin) will miss tomorrow’s trip to Manchester City.