Hibernian boss David Gray has stated that there has been no bid tabled by Leicester City for star defender Warren O’Hora.
The 27-year-old moved to the Edinburgh club in 2024 from MK Dons, where he was coached by Foxes boss Russell Martin prior to his switch to Swansea City in the summer of 2021.
Hibs Refute Claims Amid Speculation
However, rumours had swirled prior to Hibernian’s Scottish Premiership win over Dundee around O’Hora’s future, with the Hibs Observer reporting that Leicester had tabled a ‘six-figure’ bid for the defender, as the League One club eye final additions to their ranks ahead of the deadline tomorrow night.
Several options have been eyed by the Foxes to cover any impending exit for Harry Souttar amid interest from Wrexham, with the Guardian stating that both Sheffield United‘s Mark McGuinness and Coventry City‘s Joel Latibeaudiere are also potential candidates to head to the King Power.
O’Hora was not involved in the Easter Road club’s win over Dundee, with David Gray asked to elaborate as to why the Irishman was missing from his squad. (Quotes via Leicestershire Live):
“Warren was just unavailable, along with a few others. There’s been no bid as far as I’m aware. We’re getting closer to the end of the transfer window now, so I would expect there to be speculation.
“As always, we are actively looking, and we’re ready for whatever comes. At this moment in time, I’m certainly not looking to lose anybody but at the same time, everyone’s got valuations, and if it’s the right thing for everybody involved, who knows. But whilst the window’s open, you need to be ready, and we certainly will be.”
Clubs in Scotland have two extra days to complete their transfer business for the summer, coinciding with their Edinburgh Derby clash with Hearts on Friday night.
O’Hora has been a regular in the squad for the Boys in Green, playing nine times so far this season, primarily in the club’s UEFA Conference League qualifying campaign, and has one year left on his deal.
Should Leicester Push On With Deal?
If the reports that Leicester City are in for Warren O’Hora are to be believed, then it is yet another option for Russell Martin to pick from as he looks to reinforce a defence which is light on options in the wake of Ben Nelson’s ACL injury and potential exits for Harry Souttar and Wout Faes.
Two central defensive options may indeed be required should the Australian head for Wrexham, and with Martin already admitting he wants to add a more experienced central defender, O’Hora more than fits the bill.
He is a player the former Rangers manager is familiar with, and while both have gone on to have varied careers since they parted ways in 2021, that familiarity could be key to helping a Leicester side floundering in their opening League One games of the season.
However, with such little time left in their window, the Foxes now need to make a quick decision as to whether they continue with this deal, or change focus to another option, especially considering a deal for Mark McGuinness may hinge on Sheffield United finding a new signing themselves.
