Leicester City are reportedly eyeing a move for Juventus attacker Matias Soule this summer. The 21-year-old had a breakout season in Serie A last year, spending 11 months on loan at Frosinone, who were battling relegation.
Despite Frosinone’s struggles and eventual relegation, Soule stood out, scoring 11 goals and contributing three assists in 36 Serie A appearances during a grueling 38-game season.
Soule has limited playing time for Juventus, making 19 appearances for the club in the 2022-23 season, including three outings in the Champions League.
Leicester’s target Soule has reportedly expressed willingness to join the Foxes. According to Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, cited by Sports Witness, Juventus’ Soule is prepared to leave Allianz Stadium this summer.
The report indicates that the young star has ‘agreed’ to a move to Premier League newcomers Leicester ahead of the upcoming 2024-25 season. Despite Soule’s eagerness for a swift resolution, negotiations between Leicester and Juventus are reportedly proving challenging.
Steve Cooper’s side is said to be ready to make an initial offer of €25m (£21.5m) for the 21-year-old, who enjoyed his most prolific season to date last year. However, Juventus is reportedly holding out for a higher fee, seeking €30m (£25.8m) plus additional incentives for their academy graduate.
Scoring 11 goals in Serie A last season was a notable achievement for Soule, matching the tally of Joshua Zirkzee, who is set to join Manchester United.
At just 21 years old, the former Frosinone loanee has the potential to thrive in the Premier League at Leicester City, benefiting from the strong managerial guidance of Steve Cooper.
Initially, Soule would face stiff competition for a starting spot, with Stephy Mavididi and Abdul Fatawu having excelled as Leicester secured automatic promotion last season.
Additionally, Soule’s versatility in playing centrally could add creative depth to the midfield, especially following Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall’s departure to Chelsea.