SLIM CHANCE

Leicester’s Islam Slimani bid turned down as Sporting play hardball over deal for potential Jamie Vardy replacement

Algerian striker has been targeted in case top scorer leaves but reports suggest Foxes will need to stump up over £24million

Jamie Gordon

Published: 11:46, 13 Jun 2016
Updated: 13:05, 13 Jun 2016

Islam Slimani has been prolific in the Portuguese league and on Algeria duty

LEICESTER are being priced out of a move for Islam Slimani - the striker they have targeted if Jamie Vardy leaves for Arsenal.

Claudio Ranieri is still waiting to discover if his top scorer will head for the Emirates after Euro 2016.

Islam Slimani has been prolific in the Portuguese league and on Algeria duty — Islam Slimani has been prolific in the Portuguese league and on Algeria dutyCredit: Getty Images

Leicester see Slimani as a potential replacement for Jamie Vardy — Leicester see Slimani as a potential replacement for top scorer Jamie VardyCredit: Getty Images

The Foxes have launched a £16m bid for Sporting striker Slimani but Algerian outlet claim the Portuguese are holding out for at least £24m.

The Algeria star scored 27 times last season as the Lisbon club lost out to cross-city rivals Benfica in the Primeira Liga.

Slimani, 27, has netted 56 goals in 108 appearances in Portugal and has linked up with Riyad Mahrez for Algeria - with 23 strikes in 43 caps.

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Sporting boss Jorge Jesus incredibly claimed he would score twice as many for Leicester than Vardy.

But it is unclear in Foxes chiefs share his enthusiasm and may turn elsewhere if they lose the 29-year-old for his £20m release clause.

Troy Deeney is another option, although Watford are also well placed to demand a considerable fee for their hitman.

Jamie Vardy trained yesterday after being denied a chance against Russia — Vardy trained yesterday after being denied a chance to play against RussiaCredit: Getty Images

Vardy was left sitting on the bench as England threw away the lead — Vardy was left sitting on the bench as England threw away the lead in openerCredit: Getty Images

Vardy forced his way into Englands plans after a superb season with Premier League champs — Vardy forced his way into Englands plans after a superb season with Prem champsCredit: EPA

In better news for Ranieri, Vardy is reported to be leaning towards turning down a move to London.

The pacey striker was an unused substitute as England were pegged back by a last-minute Russian equaliser in their Euro 2016 opener.

Andy King also failed to come off the bench as Wales got off to a better start with a 2-1 win over Slovakia.

He will be in contention to face England and Vardy on Thursday in Lens.

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