Winbdt Exclusive Transfer Analysis: Leicester City Eye Timothy Castagne as Top Left-Back Target

Leicester’s Left-Back Hunt Intensifies After Chilwell Departure

Leicester City have accelerated negotiations with Atalanta for versatile Belgian defender Timothy Castagne, as Winbdt can exclusively reveal. The Foxes are scrambling to fill the void left by Ben Chilwell’s £50m move to Chelsea last week, with Castagne emerging as their primary target ahead of Ajax’s Nicolas Tagliafico and his Atalanta teammate Robin Gosens.

Why Castagne Fits Leicester’s Transfer Philosophy

The 24-year-old Belgian international presents an ideal solution for Brendan Rodgers’ side for several compelling reasons:

Contract Situation Advantage
With just one year remaining on his current deal at Atalanta, Castagne could be available for around £21.5m – significantly cheaper than alternatives Tagliafico or Gosens, who would command fees approaching £40m.

Tactical Versatility
While primarily deployed as a right-wing-back in Atalanta’s system last season, Castagne has demonstrated equal competence on the left flank and in traditional back-four formations. This adaptability makes him particularly valuable for Rodgers’ tactical flexibility.

Proven Pedigree
Castagne was instrumental in Atalanta’s remarkable 2019/20 campaign that saw them finish third in Serie A and reach the Champions League quarterfinals. His nine caps for Belgium’s golden generation further attest to his quality.

Expert Insight: Why This Move Makes Sense

Winbdt spoke with former Premier League scout Mark Harrison about the potential signing: “Castagne is exactly the profile Leicester look for – young, technically gifted, and with resale value. His experience in Gasperini’s system at Atalanta means he’s already comfortable with the high-intensity football Rodgers prefers.”

The Competition and Timeline

While Castagne appears Leicester’s first choice, the club maintains interest in:

• Nicolas Tagliafico (Ajax): More experienced but would require record fee
• Robin Gosens (Atalanta): Similar profile but more expensive

The Foxes hope to conclude a deal before the October 5 transfer deadline, with the player reportedly keen on Premier League football. Interestingly, Rodgers had previously tried to sign Castagne during his Celtic tenure, with head of recruitment Lee Congerton maintaining the connection.

What This Means for Leicester’s Season

Securing Castagne would:

• Provide immediate competition for James Justin at left-back
• Offer cover for Ricardo Pereira once he returns from injury
• Maintain Leicester’s reputation for smart recruitment
• Allow funds to be allocated to other problem areas

Winbdt will continue monitoring this developing story as Leicester look to build on last season’s impressive campaign. With Castagne’s versatility and attacking output (3 goals, 4 assists last season), he could prove another astute signing for the ambitious Midlands club.