Exclusive: Marti Cifuentes’ Uncertain Future Could Derail Leicester’s Plan to Sign Jordan James Permanently

Leicester City will only attempt to sign Jordan James on a permanent basis during the summer transfer window if Marti Cifuentes remains in charge, with a change at the helm potentially throwing the youngster’s long-term future there into doubt, SportsBoom can exclusively reveal.

James has made an explosive start to the season since arriving on loan from Rennes, scoring eight goals in 21 appearances. 

The latest of those came during last week’s defeat at Sheffield United, which increased the pressure on Cifuentes’ shoulders following a series of indifferent results after the club was relegated from the Premier League last term.

Speaking after that win, which quashed hopes a recent victory over Derby County would mark an upturn in fortune, Cifuentes revealed he has a “plan” for James between now and the end of the campaign. 

Foxes’ plans hinge on head coach

That, according to sources in the Midlands, includes persuading his employers to trigger a clause which would secure the 21-year-old’s services on a permanent basis should he still be at the helm.

Although Cifuentes’ position is far from secure, there is a desire to see the Spaniard succeed among senior figures at the King Power Stadium. 

James, who began his career with Birmingham City before heading to France in a reported £4m deal, has grasped the former Queens Park Rangers chief’s methods faster than most. 

However, there is no guarantee that a new boss would view him as part of their plans moving forward if Cifuentes is relieved of his duties.

Despite not turning 22 until July, James has already been capped 25 times by Wales at senior level having also represented them in the under-15, under-16 and under-18 categories. 

He enjoyed a brief flirtation with England, featuring for their under-20 side twice, before resurrecting his relationship with Craig Bellamy’s squad.

James played 25 times for Rennes after leaving St Andrews but was allowed to return to England after being approached by Cifuentes.

Despite fears Rennes’ head coach Habib Beye could elect to recall him this month after his impressive performances for The Foxes, both their board and Cifuentes are confident that James will instead signal that he would prefer to stay put.

SportsBoom sources have been told Leicester have already begun sounding out former manager Martin O’Neill as a short-term option to steady the club should they decide to part company with Cifuentes.