Leicester in advanced talks with former Championship promotion boss | OneFootball

Leicester Close In on Russell Martin Appointment Amid Managerial Reshuffle

Martin in Line to Take Over as Leicester Plot Promotion Push

Leicester City appear set to make Russell Martin their new manager, with advanced talks reportedly underway to install the 39-year-old as Ruud van Nistelrooy’s successor.

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Sources have told Football Insider that the club, relegated from the Premier League this season, are closing in on a deal that would see Martin return to management following his departure from Southampton in December.

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It marks a decisive turn for Leicester, who are wasting no time in shaping their future after a season of instability both on and off the pitch. With an official announcement expected soon, the appointment would give Martin an opportunity to establish structure and strategy at a club still reeling from successive managerial upheavals.

Why Martin Appeals to the Foxes

Martin’s recent success with Southampton has not gone unnoticed. Taking over the Saints in their moment of crisis and guiding them back to the Premier League at the first attempt underlines his tactical competence and temperament.

As Football Insider notes, “a number of contenders have been considered” for the Leicester role, but it is Martin’s clear playing identity and recent Championship know-how that stands out.

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Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown has already suggested Martin is “in pole position” and described him as “someone Leicester can build around.” That sentiment has resonated inside the club.

There has been criticism of the lack of tactical cohesion under Van Nistelrooy and Steve Cooper. Martin represents a chance to reset with clarity.

Dyche Interest Fades as Martin Advances

There had been speculation around Sean Dyche’s candidacy, with Football Insider reporting earlier this month that he was interested and well-placed geographically for the job. However, progress with Martin has left Dyche on the outside looking in.

Given Dyche’s exit from Everton and his reported desire to remain in the Midlands, it looked a sensible fit, but the Foxes have clearly prioritised style and recent success over familiarity.

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Rebuilding with Intent

The sacking of Van Nistelrooy, described as part of a “disastrous season” by Mick Brown, has opened the door for meaningful change. Martin would be afforded the time and trust to build a philosophy from the ground up.

He may be unproven at the top level, but Leicester are not searching for a short-term fix. They are aiming for something more stable, more sustainable, and in Martin, they may have found the right architect.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Russell Martin isn’t the flashiest name. He doesn’t come with a golden CV or top-six reputation. But what he does bring is exactly what this club needs – structure, clarity, and identity.

His work at Southampton showed what he can do under pressure. Taking a relegated squad and moulding them into a cohesive unit that bounced straight back is no easy feat, and that experience will be vital for Leicester.

Let’s be honest, Leicester have lurched from one ideology to another since Brendan Rodgers left. Neither Steve Cooper nor Van Nistelrooy could impose control or consistency. With Martin, they may finally have a manager who believes in a system, one that suits the Championship but can also evolve.