Michail Antonio’s proposed contract with Leicester City fell through after the striker sustained an injury in training.
The former West Ham star has been training with the Championship club for a month and was in talks over a short-term contract.
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However, the unfortunate muscle injury has put paid to those plans as Antonio is expected to be out for several weeks.
After the Foxes’ 2-1 win against West Brom on Monday, coach Marti Cifuentes confirmed that the club was no longer seeking a contract with the 35-year-old.
Deal for Antonio fails
“Michail Antonio, unfortunately he had a small setback during training with us and that means that unfortunately we cannot continue the process we have started,” Cifuentes told reporters.
“It’s a shame because he’s a great guy, a great professional. He’s shown really good things in the weeks he’s been with us, not just from a footballing perspective but also from a personal perspective. But that changes the plan.”
Leicester are in desperate need of attacking reinforcements as they only have Jordan Ayew and the failed Patson Daka to choose from as they look to climb up the Championship table.
Antonio, who was praised by Cifiuentes for his performance in training, would have added much-needed firepower despite his lack of football last year.
The striker has not played club football since he was involved in a horrific car accident in December 2024 in which he broke his femur in four places.
But it’s back to the drawing board for the Midlands club as they look to strengthen their squad for the second half of the season and Cifuentes is confident he can bring in a new face or two.
“It’s something we’re analyzing,” Cifuentes said of his plans to sign another striker.
“Together with the club, we have daily discussions about this. We will try to do our best to improve the team when we have the opportunity.”
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Leicester’s last-minute win on Monday night lifted them into the top half of the table after mixed results over the festive period.
The win over West Brom was Ryan Mason’s final act as manager of the Baggies following his sacking on Tuesday morning.
Abdul Fatawu’s superb stoppage-time winner gave Cifuentes’ side a much-needed boost as discontent grew in the stands.
Dissent in the stands
Sections of Leicester’s supporters decided to boycott the clash in protest against the club’s King Power ownership.
Leicester, who have one of the most expensive squads in the Championship, should be fighting for promotion this season.
However, a series of poor form and off-field problems have formed a dark cloud over the King Power Stadium.
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There is also the prospect of a hefty point deduction for breaching the Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR) as Leicester face three separate charges.
A significant points deduction – which is entirely possible – could see the Foxes embroiled in an unlikely relegation battle, so in the event of the worst possible result, a solid accumulation of points remains the priority.
Leicester’s win over West Brom means they sit 12th in the Championship, just four points off the final play-off spot.