Graham Potter is Leicester City target as head coach search continues

Graham Potter could return to the bench for Leicester City next season Photo: Action Images/Peter Ciborra

Leicester City has made contact with Graham Potter, the former Chelsea and Brighton manager, who is stepping up the search for Enzo Maresca's successor.

Potter is seen as a serious target for Leicester's management, although it is understood he will not be an easy sell. persuading him to return to the championship winners.

Since leaving Chelsea last April, Potter has carefully assessed his options, receiving a number of offers from England and Europe.

Leicester have always rated Potter highly and want to get a clearer picture of his thinking. by contacting his representative John Morris.

With a likely points deduction and possible sales of key players expected in the summer, Potter may view Leicester as a risk, although the club are believed to be optimistic about the season ahead.< /p>

Carlos Corberan, the West Brom manager, is another contender to replace Maresca, whose appointment Chelsea confirmed on Monday.

Jamie Vardy, meanwhile, will retire from his Premier League career after turning 38. anniversary after agreeing to a new one-year contract with Leicester City.

Vardy played a central role in Leicester's remarkable Premier League title in 2015 and, unlike many of his teammates, has remained at the club ever since. Photo: Getty Images

The greatest signing in Leicester history secured the league title. with a huge boost ahead of a return to the top flight.

The decision to keep Vardy for a further 12 months was approved by Maresca ahead of his departure and talks progressed last week. The EFL transfer embargo was also lifted on Thursday.

Vardy, 37, scored 18 goals in the Championship last season and returned Leicester to the top flight after relegation in May 2023.

Signed in May from then-non-league Fleetwood Town for just £1 million. In 2012, Vardy won the Premier League title, the FA Cup and the FA Cup, and also broke the scoring record by scoring in 11 consecutive matches.

Vardy said: “To achieve the results I have achieved [in last season], I'm excited about it, but that's not all. I take care of myself. I've always said that age is just a number. My legs feel good, so I continue until my legs say, «That's it, game over.» The day will come when this will happen, but it is not now.   

“We're looking forward to another season in the Premier League and seeing what we can do. One hundred percent, this is the best league in the world. This is where you want to play your football.”

Leicester also confirmed Denmark international Jannik Vestergaard has signed a new three-year contract, but fellow title holder Marc Albrighton is leaving on a free transfer. transfer.