Leicester City is reportedly considering a move for former loanee Callum Doyle, as the defender seeks a permanent transfer this summer. Doyle, who played a crucial role in Leicester’s Championship-winning campaign last season, has spent the past year on loan at Norwich City. With his contract at Manchester City nearing its end, Doyle is eager to find a permanent home and settle down after several loan spells across the country.
Callum Doyle said: “I think (a permanent move) is the next aim for me. It’s my fourth loan now, and I’ve been all over the country. I’ve loved playing here and at Carrow Road. The fans are great, so you never know (about a return). It just depends on what happens in the summer, to be honest.”
Doyle’s time at Leicester was marked by a strong start, with 17 league appearances before a knee injury sidelined him for a few months. During his absence, James Justin solidified his position at left-back, making it challenging for Doyle to regain his spot. However, the 21-year-old’s versatility and skill set make him an attractive option for Leicester as they plan for the upcoming season.
Under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, Doyle primarily operated as a left-back, occasionally slotting into a back three when in possession. His recent stint at Norwich saw him make 40 Championship appearances, alternating between left-back and centre-back roles. This experience has helped him develop his defensive capabilities and passing prowess, as evidenced by his seven assists this season.
Callum Doyle said: “I’ve been fluctuating between left-back, centre-back and stuff like that. I think it’s good for me, especially for my career going forward. I’ve got to have some things in my locker to have.”
Leicester faces potential departures in their defensive lineup, with Wout Faes, Caleb Okoli, Jannik Vestergaard, and Conor Coady all linked with moves away. As Ben Nelson returns from a successful loan at Oxford, the club is in need of a reliable partner for him. Doyle’s left-footedness and passing ability could complement Nelson’s style, fitting well with Leicester’s tactical approach.
Despite the interest, the main hurdle remains Doyle’s price tag, which is rumored to be around £25 million. This figure is considered steep for Leicester, and Norwich’s former manager, Johannes Hoff Thorup, indicated that the Canaries were priced out of a permanent deal.
Johannes Hoff Thorup said: “There’s a price tag that is probably a little bit too difficult for us. I hope, without being his agent or supervisor or anything like that, that his next step is a club where he will be for two, three or four years. I don’t think it’s ideal for a young player to change clubs every season. He’s tried to be clever about his decisions and find clubs where they’re a little bit similar in how they play the game, so it’s not too different. But it’s never ideal to go from club to club every summer and find a new environment with new team-mates, and everything is brand new. I think physically he needs to improve still a bit, especially his defensive game, especially when he’s defending one-versus-one. On the ball, he could 100 per cent play in the Premier League. I hope for him that he can find a club where he can be for three or four years. If the price-tag was realistic for us, then I hope that will be here.”
As Leicester City evaluates their options, Doyle’s potential return could provide the defensive stability and creativity they seek. However, negotiations will need to address the financial aspects to make this move feasible.
