Russell Martin addresses Alex McCarthy to Leicester City amid Begovic exit

Leicester City boss Russell Martin has confirmed he wants to add to the goalkeeping department this summer amid Alex McCarthy's imminent arrival.

Jakub Stolarczyk and Fran Vieites have been used by the City head coach in the first two pre-season friendlies against Northampton and Bristol Rovers. Both goalkeepers have played the same amount of time as they compete for the No.1 spot next season.

Last term, Stolarczyk was the clear number one under Marti Cifuentes and Gary Rowett. Asmir Begovic played 12 games for the Foxes after signing from Everton on a free transfer, replacing the former Poland youth international a couple of times.

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The 39-year-old's contract expired at the King Power Stadium at the end of June and the club were in talks over an extension for another year. However, it appears that the former Chelsea and Stoke City shot-stopper won't be returning to Seagrave.

Speaking after Tuesday night's win over Bristol Rovers, Martin was asked about his thoughts on his goalkeeping options and confirmed that Begovic has departed. “We need to add to it for sure, we’ll have to add to that department because Asmir left and we haven’t replaced him yet," he told LeicestershireLive.

"I thought they both did great tonight, in different ways. Jakub pulled off an amazing save, but with their feet tonight as well, they’ve been great."

Former Southampton goalkeeper Alex McCarthy, who worked with Martin at St. Mary's, is understood to be close to joining the Foxes. The 36-year-old is currently a free agent and provides plenty of experience.

Asked about McCarthy, Martin said: “I think he can help in the goalkeeping department for sure. We’ll have to wait and see.”

It's crunch time for Leicester City as they face a serious rebuilding process in League One. The transfer window is open and we will see players heading in and out of the King Power turnstiles.

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