LEICESTER, ENGLAND - JUNE 21 : Leicester City unveil the new manager Steve Cooper at the King Power Stadium on June 21, 2024 in Leicester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Plumb Images/Leicester City FC via Getty Images)
HITC Sport claim that Praet, who is a free agent after leaving the King Power Arena this summer, turned down a move to Championship side Burnley. HITC say that talks were held between the Clarets and the player signed by Leicester for £18m in 2019. Journalist Graeme Bailey added that Fulham, Ipswich Town, and Wolves all considered signing the Belgian playmaker.
“I am realistic enough to realise that a top-four team from a top league will not suddenly come and get me. But if I end up at a nice mid-range club where I can become a key player, that’s also good.
“And if it is in a location where it is fun for my family to stay, then that is a bonus.”
The 30-year-old instead looks to be on his way back to Belgium as he closes in on a move to Royal Antwerp. Belgian media outlet DH les Sports + is reporting that Praet underwent a medical on Thursday ahead of his move to the Bosuilstadion.
Praet, who has 15 caps for the Belgium national team, was limited to 20 appearances for the Foxes last season, and made just nine starts. He now joins a side that are 11th out of 16th in the Belgian Pro League with two wins, a draw and three defeats from their opening six matches.
As for Wolves, their search for an attacking midfielder saw them land on Andre, signing him from Fluminense in a deal that could be worth up to £21m. The 23-year-old is currently away on international duty with Brazil, and after games against Ecuador (September 7) and Paraguay (September 11), he could be in line to make his debut. Wolves play Newcastle United in the Premier League on Sunday, Septembr 15 at 4.30 pm.
