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Leicester City signing this 21-year-old League One starlet would get Rodgers a gem of a talent to work with next season

Leicester City Opinion: James Justin would be a brilliant addition for the Foxes

According to a report from the Daily Mail, Leicester City have beaten Aston Villa to the signing of Luton Town full-back James Justin.

Justin, 21, starred for Luton as they earned promotion to the Championship by topping the League One last season. The 21-year-old was equally as important offensively as he was defensively, and his stellar displays attracted interest from a number of clubs, including Leicester City.

The Foxes boss Brendan Rodgers prioritised the signing of a full-back to compete with Ricardo Pereira, following the release of Danny Simpson. And Justin would be a perfect fit at the King Power Stadium.

Rodgers has brought a breath of fresh air at Leicester, changing the team’s dynamics and style of play that was dull and unexciting under former manager Claude Puel.

The likes of Jamie Vardy, James Maddison, Harvey Barnes, Ricardo Pereira and on-loan midfielder Youri Tielemans thrived in the Northern Irishman’s possession-based yet expansive system in the second half of last season.

Pereira was the standout performer for the Foxes, bagging Leicester’s Player of the Season for 2018/19 in what happened to be his debut season at East Midlands.

The Portuguese was one of the top three right-backs last term, displaying excellent pace, power and verve going forward, whilst being defensively sound.

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However, Pereira’s dazzling displays haven’t gone unnoticed, with the Sun claiming Juventus are close to sealing his signature. It would be a hammer blow for Leicester if that happens, particularly after the 25-year-old’s brilliant first season in the Premier League.

Losing Pereira straightaway after Simpson’s release should leave Rodgers short of options at right-back ahead of the new campaign. Juventus are one of the best teams in Europe and turning down an offer is always difficult for any player.

So, Pereira could be excused if he wants to join the Italian champions this summer, as he also will be eager to force his way into Portugal’s Euro 2020 plans. The Portugal international’s departure could see James Justin being thrown in the deep end by Rodgers.

Justin operated both at right-back and left-back for Luton Town and he is also comfortable playing in midfield, having started his career as a central midfielder.

He is very comfortable on the ball, with the ability to provide genuine width and pace down the flank and thus open up space for his teammates making him such an exciting full-back.

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Defensively, the 21-year-old is solid as well, although with time he can iron out the little flaws in his game under Rodgers.

Verdict

Due to Justin’s maturity, composure on the ball and adaptability to perform in both sides of defence, he would be a smart addition to Leicester’s ranks. He can also potentially replace Pereira at right-back if the Portuguese decides to leave the club.