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Leicester make move for cut-price West Brom defender Jonny Evans

Northern Ireland international Evans is expected to move on this summer.

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Leicester have triggered Jonny Evans’ £3million release clause and are close to signing the defender from West Brom.

The Foxes have moved to seal a bargain deal after Albion’s Premier League relegation, Press Association Sport understands.

They are confident of completing the move having been long-term admirers of the 30-year-old.

Leicester failed with several bids last summer as the Baggies rejected their offers, the final one close to £23million.

But because of West Brom’s drop into the Sky Bet Championship, Evans is available for a cut-price £3million and is expected to leave The Hawthorns.

Arsenal had an approach rejected in January as the Baggies kept Evans for their failed relegation fight last season.

Manchester City tried to sign him last summer but could not agree a fee with Albion, with a move back to the north west believed to have interested Evans.

He joined Albion for £6million rising to £8million from Manchester United in 2015 and was installed as captain by former manager Tony Pulis.

The Northern Ireland international was part of a group of four players who apologised after a taxi was allegedly stolen during a club trip to Spain in February.

He failed to start Albion’s final six games under Darren Moore but has made 96 appearances and scored five goals for the club.

Leicester are revamping their defence with Robert Huth having been released while captain Wes Morgan will be 35 years old at the end of next season.

Boss Claude Puel is being backed in the transfer market with his position now safe after doubts at the end of last term.

The Foxes are also leading the chase for Norwich midfielder James Maddison.

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