The Foxes however, hard up themselves, turned down this offer, due to their own financial constraints and opted for the season long loan, which is expected to be made official very soon.
The news of the free offer however is likely to anger fans, who have seen cut price exits so far this season for skipper Matt Holland, and classy central defender come midfielder Thomas Gaardsoe already this season. The news that Bent however, was basically told he could leave for nothing, is sure to be even more alarming and yet again, Chairman David Sheepshanks' position must be called into question.
Clearly the finances at the club are worse than many supporters have expected, and ITFM backs Ipswich Town First's statement last month which called for the club to outline their financial position so fans could understand what is going on. Since then, no statement from the club regarding the situation has been issued.
It is expected that the club will use the money raised from savings on Bent's £15,000 a week wages on new loan signings to strengethen the midfield. How Royle uses this however, and to what effect remains to be seen and looks certain to play a big part in how the rest of the season turns out for the blues.
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