Leicester's free‑agent gamble banks on Chaplin to revive League One

Leicester City have signed former Ipswich Town striker Conor Chaplin on a free‑transfer three‑year contract, moving him to the King Power Stadium after his summer release by the Suffolk side. The 29‑year‑old forward becomes the Foxes’ first signing following their drop to League One.

The deal makes Chaplin the inaugural addition to Leicester’s squad in the new campaign, and his arrival at the King Power Stadium follows his departure from Ipswich Town earlier this summer. The 29‑year‑old forward is expected to lead the line as Leicester rebuilds in League One.

Leicester have endured back‑to‑back relegations, falling from the Championship into League One, a division where Chaplin excelled as a prolific scorer. The club’s recent descent underscores the urgency of a swift return to higher tiers.

Chaplin’s record in League One is highlighted by a 26‑goal season for Ipswich, demonstrating his ability to find the net consistently at this level. His proven goal‑scoring pedigree is seen as a key factor in Leicester’s revival plans.

During the 2025‑26 season Chaplin spent time on loan at Portsmouth, making 36 Championship appearances and scoring two goals. The loan spell provided him with recent experience in the second tier of English football.

Previously, Chaplin helped Ipswich Town achieve promotion to the Championship and later to the Premier League while based at Portman Road. He was the club’s top scorer in League One four seasons ago, netting 26 goals.

The signing marks the first move in Leicester’s summer overhaul, which has already seen the exit of high‑earning players such as former England midfielder Harry Winks to Cagliari, forwards Jordan Ayew and Patson Daka, captain Ricardo Pereira and several out‑of‑contract squad members. The club also sold 17‑year‑old Jeremy Monga to Manchester City, the most high‑profile departure of the window.

Financial constraints, including a points penalty for historic spending breaches, have forced the Foxes to trim the wage bill further. Chaplin’s free‑transfer deal fits the club’s need to balance finances while adding quality.

Chaplin said he is “grateful to be given the opportunity” to play for the 2016 Premier League champions, signalling his desire to help Leicester rebuild. His comment reflects a clear commitment to the Foxes’ project.

For the Foxes, his experience and goal‑scoring pedigree offer a boost as they aim to dominate League One, while Chaplin gains a platform to revive his career.