Puel: Leicester need Maguire and Schmeichel

Cape Town - Leicester City manager Claude Puel admits it would be a big blow for the club if they lose centre-back Harry Maguire and goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel before the new season.

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Maguire is reportedly a transfer target for Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho, who is thought to be lining up a £60 million bid for the England international.

Meanwhile, Schmeichel has also been linked with a move away with Chelsea expected to table an offer if Thibaut Courtois ends up signing for Real Madrid. Puel is hoping neither transfer will happen.

"I think we can keep both players. It is crucial for us," Puel told the media after Leicester's 2-1 defeat to Udinese on Saturday.

"We cannot lose players just a few days before the beginning of the season.

"We would not be able to find a solution and we cannot be be behind.

"Kasper and Maguire are so valuable for us. It is important to maintain our structure, our squad and all our valuable players for the team.

"We know all the difficulties after the World Cup, to work in this condition to prepare all of the squad, to keep good mentality and spirit and to find a good level for every player.

"If we have another surprise before the end of the pre-season, it will be tough."