Transfer news: Leicester boss Nigel Pearson dismisses Islam Slimani talk

Leicester City boss Nigel Pearson has played down reports linking the club with a move for Sporting striker Islam Slimani.

Reports have suggested that the Algeria international is a transfer target for Leicester as they bid to improve their squad ahead of the new Premier League campaign.

There has even been speculation in Portugal that an offer has been made for the 26-year-old, but Pearson insists he is in the dark. 

"If there has been a bid gone in I know nothing about it," he said, quoted in the Leicester Mercury.

"It is pretty cold, that one. In terms of hot or cold that one is freezing."

Pearson is excited about the level of competition within his squad as the start of the season approaches.

He was pleased with the team’s display in a 2-0 win over MK Dons on Monday, while a different set of players will get the chance to impress against Rotherham  on Tuesday.

"We saw a lot more intensity, especially from the midfield and I thought we were very good," he said.

"It was good for us to get 90 minutes for the vast majority of players and it was a good exercise. That is what this point of pre-season is all about, getting match time into the players.

"The players have to recognise themselves that they are now playing for their places.

"There were some strong performances and we certainly have plenty of competition in the squad, which is pleasing."