Jamie Vardy 'agrees' shock free transfer but manager pulls plug on deal at the last minute

A Premier League legend has reportedly denied former England and Leicester City star Jamie Vardy the chance of a mouth-watering move.

Vardy famously inspired The Foxes to their iconic Premier League title triumph during the 2015/16 campaign.

However, the 38-year-old left the King Power Stadium at the end of last season, having found the back of the net 200 times and provided 71 assists in 500 appearances across all competitions.

His contract came to an end after 13 years with the club, and now he is free to find a new challenge in England or abroad.

The former non-league star has been linked with the likes of Scottish giants Rangers as well as several Premier League sides.

Jamie Vardy

However, reports from La Repubblica appear to have ruled out a sensational move to Italy for Vardy after another icon of the English top flight vetoed the deal.

Patrick Vieira spent nine years running Arsenal's midfield and now he is pulling the strings as manager of Serie A side Genoa.

La Repubblica believe that Vardy was close to completing a move to the Italian club until the 49-year-old Frenchman stepped in to put a stop to the deal.

Genoa sporting director Flavio Ricciardella reportedly tried to get the deal over the line, with some of the club's sponsors supposedly prepared to cover the Englishman's wages.

Reports online and in the printed press now appear to suggest that Vardy will complete a move to 55-time Scottish champions Rangers this summer.

Patrick Vieira on the touchline during Crystal Palace vs. Southampton. Image: Alamy

The former Fleetwood Town star won 26 international caps for England between 2015 and 2018, scoring seven goals.

Vardy scored 24 goals during Leicester City's Premier League title-wining season and was a key part of the side that won the FA Cup during the 2020/21 campaign.

Since retiring from playing, Vieira has also managed New York City FC, Nice, Crystal Palace and Strasbourg.