There were reports of Leicester City turning down an initial offer from Besiktas for Rachid Ghezzal, with the Foxes planning to recoup around atleast £6 million for his departure.
When Riyad Mahrez left to pursue his dreams for Manchester City, Leicester were quick to bring in another left-footed right-winger from Algeria in Rachid Ghezzal – but things didn’t go as planned for Ghezzal, who didn’t even come close to emulating Mahrez’ impact at Leicester.
Though after an impressive loan spell with Besiktas, it ensures the Foxes would be able to command a commendable transfer fee for the Algerian. The Leicester loanee was instrumental for Besiktas’ last season, helping the Istanbul based side to Super Lig and Turkish Cup. The 29-year-old is also attracting interest from the likes of AS Monaco and it only means that Besiktas may be forced to look beyond, with Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend reported as an alternative.
Townsend made thirty-four appearances in the Premier League for Roy Hodgson’s side last season, scoring once and assisting five.
With Townsend’s contract at Selhurst Park due at the end of next month, Turkish newspaper Takvim suggests that the Besiktas are willing to bring him on a free transfer in the summer owing to substandard financial conditions. And Andros did open about his willingness to explore interests from Europe.
Though it is reported that Besiktas are in talks with Leicester City over getting Ghezzal, and they’ll explore alternatives if that move doesn’t come through.
