Nigel De Jong is a target for the Premier League leaders, Leicester City, per reports in the mainItalian media.
The ex-Manchester City enforcer has already said that he won't sign a new contract with AC Milan and is expected to move away from the Italian capital in January. Since joining AC Milan from Man City in 2012, De Jong has turned out for the Italian giants on 78 occasions, scoring six goals.
City favourite
If De Jong does make the move to the East Midlands club, it won't be his first taste of Premier League action. The holding midfielder won the league with the Citizens on that famous day at the end of the 2011/12 season. After making over 100 appearances for City, he became a favourite with the fans because of his workmanlike performances and his nitty-gritty defensive style. He only scored twice for the club but the nature of his game doesn't produce goals as he tends to sit just in front of the defence.
Inler wants out
This rumour has stemmed from the fact that Leicester's summer signing, Gokhan Inler, has admitted to wanting to sign a loan deal elsewhere to improve his match fitness. The Swiss captain hasn't been able to cement a place in the Foxes' side due to his inconsistency when called upon. The pass-master is looking for a move away to get himself back to his best in order to challenge for a starting place in Claudio Ranieri's team.
Competition for Places
If Nigel De Jong was to come into the Leicester squad in January, he'd struggle to get straight into the starting XI. With Danny Drinkwater and N'Golo Kante in the forms of their respective lives, it would be next to impossible for the Dutch midfielder to force his way into the squad immediately. However, after busy Christmas period, a number of injuries might see the 31-year-old come in as back-up and his wealth of experience would be vital for the younger, less experienced players.
If the Foxes were to succeed in gaining a place in Europe next season, De Jong would be a smart signing due to the fact of his experience in big games and in European fixtures. The signing of a player like Nigel De Jong for Leicester would send out a massive signal of intent, showing that they're up for the top-of-the-table fight.
