Leicester have told Middlesbrough they are prepared to pay £12million for Gaston Ramirez but the Teesside club are holding out for more amid their own interest in Stoke’s Bojan.
Claudio Ranieri is prioritising the signing of a new centre-back but is also keen to add creativity and likes Ramirez’s ability to operate across the line behind a striker.
It is understood that Ramirez has a release clause in his contract worth £15m, although it may take more to prise the Uruguayan from Boro due to the exact terms.
Aitor Karanka is reluctant to lose the 26-year-old but could sanction the departure if Boro are successful in their pursuit of Bojan, who has told Stoke he wishes to leave.