Leicester City hunt new striker after Lorent Tolaj joins Bristol City

Leicester City, newly relegated to the Championship, are intensifying their search for a replacement No. 9 ahead of the 2026/27 season. After forward Lorent Tolaj completed a move to Bristol City, the Foxes have turned their attention to two League One strikers – Aribim Pepple and Leyton Orient’s Dom Ballard.

Ballard, 21, topped the League One scoring charts last season with 23 goals and is reportedly still on Leicester’s radar despite an earlier £10 million-plus valuation that has since softened. Pepple, also 23, is praised for his goal‑threat at that level. The club’s recent signings have been limited to Conor Chaplin and goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, leaving the senior squad thin and prompting urgency in the striker market.

Manager Russell Martin confirmed that adding firepower is a priority, while Orient’s owners emphasised the need for a sustainable offer before any sale proceeds.