Claudio Ranieri, the Leicester manager, has also been linked with a move for another Sporting star with Portuguese midfielder Adrien Silva, 27, appearing to confirm reports that he is destined for a £20m switch to the King Power Stadium.
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“After the past 15 years at Sporting, this opportunity is something exceptional for me and can allow me to express and impose myself in another championship, and also to evolve in the Premier League, which is a stunning league”.
The Foxes are reportedly willing to spend £29.9m on the Algeria worldwide, while Sporting are hoping to secure at least £34.1m.
He told Portuguese daily O Jogo: “I confirm the offer [from Leicester City]”.
The prolific forward would be a welcome addition to Tony Pulis’ side, who were the second lowest goal scorers in the Premier League last season, scoring just 34 goals in 38 games.
“The president has assured me, that after so many years of dedicated service, he will not put any obstacles in front of my professional development”. I can say that I grew up with the club.
Silva has made 198 senior appearances for Sporting Lisbon and also has 13 global caps to his name with Portugal.
He has made 14 appearances for the Portugal national team and was in the squad that won Euro 2016 and played in the final against France.
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Everton’s interest is hardly surprising after Leicester’s head of recruitment joined as director of football.
