Leicester star Caglar Soyuncu “is on the verge of signing with Atletico Madrid” when he was in shock in January

LEICESTER star Caglar Soyuncu is reportedly close to a move to Atletico Madrid.

The Turkish defender’s contract expired at the end of the season, leaving the Midlands club vulnerable to a transfer jump.

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He has proved a reliable and consistent figure at the heart of Leicester’s defense following his move to King Power in 2018.

But Soyuncu is now moving towards the exit door, according to Marca.

The Spanish publication report that Atletico Madrid are hiring the 26-year-old on a free transfer once his contract expires.

However, the report adds that the Spanish club could switch as early as January if they could make room in their squad.

If Atletico can replace 33-year-old defender Felipe and disgraced Spaniard Mario Hermaso, Marca say they will try to buy Soyuncu in the new year.

This will require a fee but Leicester would likely have to sell the defender for less money than he’s worth given his contract situation.

Soyuncu has been a regular starter for the Foxes in recent seasons and has often been a rock at the heart of defense.

He was also a regular in the Turkish national team.

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He’s not the only talent Leicester are clinging to.

Youri Tielemans’ contract also expires at the end of the season, with the midfielder linked with high transfer interests.

Arsenal and Barcelona are among the clubs interested in the Belgian.

Leicester also lost first-choice goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel in the summer, while fans were left frustrated by the lack of signings during the transfer window.

The season started poorly for Brendan Rodgers’ men as they lost six of their first seven league games.

But their form improved drastically and they went into the World Cup break having won four of their last five.