Leicester City have completed the signing of former fan favourite Jeffrey Schlupp on a free transfer, bringing the versatile Ghanaian international back to the King Power Stadium nearly nine years after his initial departure. The 31-year-old rejoins the Foxes following the expiration of his contract with Crystal Palace.
Schlupp, a key member of Leicester’s historic 2015/16 Premier League title-winning side, becomes the first major signing of the summer for the East Midlands club, who are bracing for a significant squad rebuild after suffering relegation from the Premier League last month. His return offers a blend of top-flight experience and club familiarity that the Foxes hope will spark a swift return to the top tier.
A Full-Circle Moment
Having come through Leicester’s youth ranks, Schlupp made over 150 appearances during his first spell with the club before moving to Crystal Palace in January 2017. His versatility—capable of playing at left-back, wing-back, and in midfield—proved valuable throughout his time in South London, where he amassed over 200 appearances.
Schlupp spent the latter half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Celtic, where he helped Brendan Rodgers’ side secure a fourth consecutive Scottish Premiership title. His performances north of the border, combined with his free-agent status, made him an attractive target for Leicester as they look to reshape their squad under uncertain leadership.
With manager Ruud van Nistelrooy’s future still unresolved, Schlupp’s arrival represents both a sentimental and strategic move for a club at a crossroads. His Premier League pedigree, coupled with a winning mentality forged during Leicester’s most famous campaign, is expected to be a crucial asset as the Foxes aim to bounce back from relegation.
Club Statement
In an official statement released on Tuesday morning, Leicester City confirmed the deal:
“Leicester City Football Club is delighted to announce the return of Jeffrey Schlupp on a free transfer. The Ghanaian international rejoins the Foxes after eight-and-a-half years away, bringing a wealth of Premier League experience and a deep connection to the Club. Welcome home, Jeff!”
Schlupp also expressed his excitement in returning to familiar territory:
“This club will always be special to me. To be back where it all started and where I experienced the best moments of my career—it’s a dream. I still have so much to give, and I’m here to help this club get back to where it belongs.”
A Summer of Change
Schlupp’s arrival comes amid a summer of transition at Leicester. Club legend Jamie Vardy recently confirmed his departure, and several other senior figures are expected to follow. The Foxes are expected to be busy in the transfer market as they prepare for life in the Championship, with a mix of experienced heads and emerging talent likely to feature in the rebuild.
Whether or not van Nistelrooy remains at the helm, the message from the board is clear: Leicester are determined to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking, and Jeffrey Schlupp’s homecoming is seen as an important first step on that journey.
