Matty Fryatt committed to Leicester City despite transfer talk
West Bromwich Albion were yesterday linked with a £2.5million move for the 23-year-old, reports that were dismissed by sources at The Hawthorns.
However, Albion, who have expressed an interest in Fryatt in the past, are not the first team linked with a move for the England under-19 international, who joined City from Walsall in January 2006 for an undisclosed fee believed to be £350,000.
In the summer, Hull City and Middlesbrough were both said to be weighing up moves for Fryatt but no approach was made.
However, a source close to Fryatt says he is fully committed to City and is revelling in the trust that City manager Nigel Pearson has put in him.
"Nigel has shown a lot of faith in Matty and he is enjoying it at Leicester," he said. "Nigel is one of the main reasons why he signed a three-and-a-half-year contract last December."
The Albion links may appear to be wide of the mark, but it will not end speculation over Fryatt's future if he continues his good start to the season.
Critics of Fryatt claimed doubts over the striker's ability at Championship level were the reason Hull and Boro did not follow up their interest but his 10 goals so far this season have dispelled any suggestions that Fryatt does not have the ability at this level.
The start he has made to the campaign on the back of his record-breaking season in Division One will certainly intensify any speculation.
Fryatt broke two records last season when he became the first player in 42 years to score 20 goals before Christmas and the first in 83 years to hit hat-tricks in successive matches.
He finished with 32 goals from 51 games and he has carried on that form this season, which will inevitably draw attention from Premier League clubs.
However, it will take a lot for City and Fryatt to part company. Thanks to owner Milan Mandaric, the club is in no need to cash in on their prize asset and Pearson will certainly resist any efforts to lure away his top scorer. City are more likely to be looking to strengthen the squad in January than cash in.
Meanwhile, as expected, Max Gradel has extended his loan spell at Leeds United. The Ivorian winger has been superb since arriving at Elland Road a month ago and Pearson has allowed him to remain with Simon Grayson's side until January 2 subject to a 24-hour recall.
"We're delighted Leicester have agreed to let Max stay on, and I'd like to thank Nigel Pearson for allowing him to do that," said Grayson.
"Max has done well for us. He has fitted in well, he has brought something different, and he was keen to stay on.
"Leicester do have a 24-hour recall, but he will have a role to play here."
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