Claudio Ranieri: Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez don't need to leave Leicester to challenge at the top

As Manchester United prepare to travel to the East Midlands to face the surprise Premier League leaders this weekend, the Italian reveals the Foxes have lofty ambitions for the future

Leicester City boss Claudio Ranieri embraces Jamie Vardy, the club's man-in-form

Claudio Ranieri has told Jamie Vardy and Riyad Mahrez there is no need to leave Leicester City if they want to challenge at the top of the Premier League.

The Italian is expecting the in-form pair to attract interest from across the continent in January, including from clubs chasing Champions League qualification, as both enjoy landmark campaigns in the East Midlands.

But the Leicester manager, who insists he is still targeting 40 points this season despite sitting atop of the table, believes the Foxes can ‘grow up’ and challenge for major honours in the near future.

"I think we are building a very good construction here," he said. "I understand if somebody wants to go but I believe in the next year Leicester, slowly, slowly, can grow up and battle with the top.

"At the moment we're very happy and also Jamie is happy with us. He can continue to show his strength with us. Him, Mahrez, everybody. This is our project. I spoke to the owners in July [about challenging at the top]. People believe in me – I believe in me too."

Leicester forward Riyad Mahrez (Getty Images)

Vardy can surpass Ruud van Nistelrooy’s record of scoring in ten consecutive top-flight matches when the Dutchman’s former club Manchester United visit the King Power Stadium this Saturday.

"I could understand if they [Vardy and Mahrez] want to go to a big team," Ranieri added. "But if you go to a big team and you spend a lot of time on the bench, do you feel good or not?

"Now, you are the king, here. If you go to another side, are you the king or something else? I will speak with them because I want an ambitious man before the player. But it is important they understand where Leicester are going, and then after they can choose."