Former Leicester City defender Jonny Evans has made a surprising move, signing a short-term contract at Manchester United.
The centre-back left Leicester at the end of last season following the expiry of his contract and the Foxes’ relegation, and is now set to partake in United’s pre-season matches.
Evans joined Leicester from West Brom in 2018, having originally joined the Baggies from United, after coming through the academy at Old Trafford.
The Northern Ireland veteran made 152 appearances for Leicester, and was integral as the Foxes won the FA Cup under Brendan Rodgers two years ago.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Evans has signed a short-term deal just for pre-season, which will allow him to gain fitness ahead of a transfer this summer.
Will Leicester miss Evans?
The defender made just 14 appearances in the League last season as he struggled with injury, but was made club captain at the start of last season given his experience and quality.
His lack of fitness contributed to Leicester’s downfall, as the Foxes struggled defensively and were ultimately relegated, but he appeared in just one of their six clean sheets throughout the campaign.
Nevertheless, there is an argument to be made that Evans’ injuries helped contribute to Leicester’s relegation, and he could have been a useful option in the Championship.
Enzo Maresca has already signed Conor Coady and Callum Doyle as centre-backs, and it seemed unlikely that Evans will have been a starter next season, but the 35-year-old could have been useful in the dressing room given his experience, and it remains to be seen whether he will extend his stay at Man United beyond the summer or move elsewhere.
Evans was an excellent servant for Leicester over the last five seasons, but a different challenge elsewhere may suit both parties given his age and injury record.