Leicester City manager Steve Cooper is closing in on his seventh summer signing with the impending arrival of Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew. The £8m deal will bring versatility and experience to the front line, with Ayew capable of playing as a striker, number 10, or winger.

Given Ayew’s adaptability, it’s likely that Cooper will deploy him primarily as a winger, providing width and pace to the team’s attack. This would allow Ayew to utilize his speed and agility to beat defenders and deliver crosses into the box, potentially creating scoring opportunities for the team’s strikers.

Cooper may also consider using Ayew as a striker in certain situations, particularly if the team needs a physical presence up front. Ayew’s hold-up play and ability to bring others into the game could be valuable assets in this role.

However, with the signing of Oliver Skipp and the existing midfield options, it’s less likely that Ayew will be used as a number 10, unless Cooper opts for a more attacking midfield trio.

While Ayew’s signing is a significant boost, Cooper acknowledges that his ideal transfer plan may not be completed this window. The manager is keen to add a new striker and attacking midfielder to his squad, particularly with Patson Daka ruled out for three months following ankle surgery.

Cooper expressed satisfaction with his midfield options, citing the recent signing of Oliver Skipp and the depth of talent in the position. However, he emphasized the need for similar strength in depth across all areas of the pitch.

“We have a nice balance in midfield now, and it allows us to pick the right players for the right game plans,” Cooper said. “The attack is definitely an area of the pitch that we’d like to add to. As it is in midfield, I want to be in that situation with every part of the pitch.”