The Courier & Advertiser (Perth and Perthshire Edition)
High-flying Leicester trying to tie down star striker Vardy
Foxes begin talks to extend England international’s stay at the King Power
Leicester are in talks with Jamie Vardy over a new contract.
The striker’s current deal expires in 2018 but the Foxes are already prepared to reward the England star with a new deal which will tie him to the King Power Stadium until 2019.
No deal is imminent but talks are progressing well with the 29-year-old striker, who has scored 18 goals this term, including both in last night’s 2-0 win over Liverpool.
Vardy set a new Premier League record when he netted in 11 straight games before Christmas and has helped the Foxes to the top of the standings and launch a surprise push for the title.
The 29-year-old signed his last contract in 2014 but, after boss Claudio Ranieri insisted earlier this season they would wait until the end of the campaign to extend the forward’s deal, Leicester have now moved to end speculation on his future.
Chelsea, Manchester United and Manchester City have all been credited with an interest although Press Association Sport understands City are not keen on the forward, despite admiring his achievements this season.
Vardy joined Leicester from Fleetwood for £1 million in 2012 and has since broken into the England squad, earning four caps, and is set to be included in Roy Hodgson’s squad for Euro 2016 this summer.
He has scored 44 goals in 133 appearances for the Foxes.
His double against Liverpool last night keeps Leicester three points clear of Manchester City, who the leaders visit on Saturday in a lunchtime kickoff.