Why Leicester City should revive their interest in Hasan Ali Kaldirim
Back in April, Leicestershire Live claimed that Leicester City were interested in signing Turkey star Hasan Ali Kaldirim in the summer. However, no such talks have progressed since then.
Kaldirim, 30, currently plies his trade with Turkish giants Fenerbahce, whom he joined in 2012. He has established himself as the first-choice left-back at the Turkish outfit and has been instrumental throughout the last few years, helping them lift the Super Lig title in the 2013/14 season.
However, this term, he has featured in just 16 league games for the club due to injuries and with his contract coming to an end, he could be on the move to England, with Leicester City tipped to sign the experienced campaigner, as per the report.
The Foxes, meanwhile, were brilliant for the majority of the campaign but since the restart, their performances have taken a drastic hit. They are currently in the 4th position in the league standings, equal in points with fifth-placed Manchester United.
They are at risk of losing out of the Champions League spot with just two games remaining if they continue to perform this way. However, with the new season approaching soon, the manager needs to bring in reinforcements if they need to consistent. And several key areas need to be strengthened.
Kaldirim – A left-back replacement for Ben Chilwell
The Foxes are said to be on the lookout for a left-back as Ben Chilwell’s future with the club is uncertain. The English international has attracted interest from several top clubs, including Chelsea and Manchester United as per Daily Mail. Therefore, the Foxes manager should bring in reinforcements to the squad.
Leicester have another left-back in Christian Fuchs as a back-up option but the Austrian is already 33. He is way past his prime. Hence, a move for Fenerbahce’s Hasan Ali Kaldirim would be a wise move by the club.
Kaldirim would bring wealthy experience to Rodgers’ squad, whilst providing some much-needed depth. He has made 410 career appearances and his inclusion would be a boost to the squad. At 30, he still has some years to offer at the highest level and would be a viable option for the club.
The Turkish international has evolved into a modern full-back and has been a regular for Fenerbahce in the past 8 years, making 244 appearances and contributing with 8 goals and 30 assists. He can be a crucial player if he joins Leicester as Chilwell’s replacement.
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Verdict
With Chilwell’s uncertain future, Leicester making a move for Kaldirim would be a wise decision. He would provide them with the much-needed quality and depth. With his contract coming to an end with Fenerbahce, the Foxes should reignite their interest in the Turkish international.
