Leicester signs Croatia U21 defender Benkovic

Leicester City has signed centre-back Filip Benkovic from Dinamo Zagreb on a five-year contract, subject to international clearance.

The 21-year-old Croatia youth international has arrived at King Power Stadium for a reported fee of £13 million after impressing in Dinamo's title-winning season in 2017-18.

The 6ft 4in defender scored four goals in 25 league appearances for Dinamo last season and brings Champions League and Europa League experience to Claude Puel's squad.

“I will give all my heart to this club, to all the fans, to everybody," Benkovic told the club's official website.

"Hopefully we'll have a very good result this season. The ambitions of Leicester City are so big. I like the club very much and I think it’s a very good step for me to the next level. I’m very happy to be here."

Puel's defensive options were previously strengthened by the arrival of Portuguese right-back Ricardo Pereira, Northern Ireland defender Jonny Evans and Wales goalkeeper Danny Ward, while the Foxes boss has outlined his determination to hold on to England star Harry Maguire ahead of Thursday's transfer deadline.

"Filip is an exciting young player who has the potential to develop even more at Leicester City Football Club," said Puel.

"He has made a big contribution to Dinamo Zagreb over the last three years and has also benefited from experiencing European football. I know he will give us some great options and competition in the squad and I'm delighted to have him here."