Leicester City in talks to secure permanent deal for Fatawu Issahaku

Leicester City have officially commenced talks with Sporting CP to make Fatawu Issahaku’s loan move permanent after the prodigy’s dazzling performances so far this season.

The 19-year-old joined the English side during the summer on an initial loan deal after playing just 118 minutes for Sporting’s first team last season.

It was widely reported in Portugal that the teenager wasn’t in Ruben Amorim’s plans for the new season.

The skilful winger joined the Foxes on an initial loan deal in the summer after limited opportunities at Sporting.

But the move has breathed new life into Issahaku’s career, as he has flourished under Leicester manager Enzo Maresca’s guidance.

In 28 matches, the dynamic Ghanaian wonderkid has been directly involved in 12 goals, scoring 3 and providing 9 assists, showcasing glimpses of his immense potential.

When the Portuguese club signed Issahaku from Dreams FC in 2022, they were aware of the potential of the 2021 U-20 AFCON player of the tournament and included a €60 million release clause.

However, while signing the loan contract with Leicester City, Sporting inserted a clause stating that the 2016 Premier League winners could sign Issahaku for €17 million if he played 60% of games and the club gained promotion to the top flight.

Leicester City are currently nine points clear at the top of the Championship table and Issahaku has already started 72% of games.

With this in mind, both clubs have started talks to ensure that Isshaku stays in England. A source close to Sporting CP confirmed to 3Sports: “It’s all formalities now, just waiting till the end of the season to complete the paperwork.”

The winger earlier opted out of the Ghana squad for the 2023 AFCON to focus on securing a permanent move to Leicester City – a dream of the player that is almost achieved.

For now, Issahaku refers to Leicester City as “home already because everyone is ready to help. They have helped me settle in England.”

“I think Leicester can help me to grow, to improve, and get mature. There are so many good coaches in my career. Most of them always helped me in whatever I did. I can’t count them.

“Enzo is one of them. He’s someone who will talk to you away from the games as well as in the games. He always wants you to do the right things, even out of football,” he added.

With 13 games left in Leicester’s promotion push, the teenager will be integral to catalysing their Premier League return where he can unlock his vast potential on the biggest stage.

For now, Issahaku is starring in Leicester’s march back to glory. With his box of tricks and dangerous delivery, this rising Ghanaian superstar looks poised to light up the Premier League soon.