Leicester City Secure Signing of Atalanta Defender Caleb Okoli

Leicester City have officially confirmed the signing of Atalanta centre-back Caleb Okoli, as reported by Tier One Source Fabrizio Romano.

🔵🦊 Caleb Okoli has also agreed on personal terms with Leicester City as €15m package deal will be completed.

Here we go. ✅ pic.twitter.com/3HkUpRjG2r

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 4, 2024

The Foxes have completed a deal worth €15m (£12.7m) for the 22-year-old defender, making him their first senior signing of the summer.

Okoli’s arrival adds significant depth to the Leicester City defense, aligning with new manager Steve Cooper’s strategy to strengthen the backline.

Okoli, a former Italy Under-21 international, impressed last season on loan at Frosinone in Serie A. Despite the team's relegation after finishing 18th, Okoli's individual performances have earned him this move to the Premier League.

His solid displays in 34 appearances for Frosinone showcased his potential and resilience, ensuring that his reputation remained intact despite the team's struggles.

Caleb Okoli ⬇️

pic.twitter.com/uHw4yOzlgO

— Leicester City Xtra. (@XtraLeicester) July 4, 2024

Developed through Atalanta's esteemed youth academy, Okoli has had limited senior appearances for the club, featuring just 17 times due to several loan spells. His experiences at SPAL, Cremonese, and Frosinone have honed his skills and prepared him for the challenges of English football.

Okoli’s signing supports the speculation that Steve Cooper plans to implement a defensive setup with three centre-backs and two wing-backs.

He joins an already robust defensive lineup at Leicester City, including Wout Faes, Jannik Vestergaard, Conor Coady, Ben Nelson, and Harry Souttar, providing Cooper with a variety of tactical options.

Despite being right-footed, Okoli has often been deployed on the left side of a back three, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability. This flexibility will be crucial for Cooper’s tactical plans in the upcoming season.

Fabrizio Romano confirmed the deal on his social media, stating that Atalanta will receive €15m, including add-ons, from Leicester City.

The deal's completion marks a significant milestone for Leicester as they look to rebuild and strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.