Leicester have already made contingency plans should winger Riyad Mahrez exit the club and join Manchester City on transfer deadline day.

The Algerian, who has reportedly handed in a transfer request at the Foxes, is the subject of a third bid from the Premier League leaders in the region of £55million (Dh285.5m).

While Leicester are holding out for more cash from Pep Guardiola’s men, they are likely to pursue Crystal Palace wide man Andros Townsend as a direct replacement should Mahrez leave.

The former Tottenham star has been a key performer for Roy Hodgson’s team this term but it is unlikely the Eagles will want to cash in on the 26-year-old.

However, according to reports circulating in the English media, the Foxes may test the resolve of their Premier League rivals with a bid.