Liverpool target Jamie Vardy: Claudio Ranieri admits current PL top scorer could leave in the summer

Leicester City manager Claudio Ranieri has admitted that top scorer Jamie Vardy could leave the Foxes in the summer, with a number of clubs showing interest in the striker after his blistering start to the 2015/16 campaign. The England international is the leading marksman in the Premier League with 12 goals in as many games thus far. The Leicester striker is looking to match former Manchester United striker Ruud van Nistelrooy's record of scoring in 10 consecutive Premier League matches.

The King Power Stadium outfit are on a high after a high-flying start to the season. They are currently in third place just one point behind pacesetters Manchester City and Arsenal in second. They are ahead of traditional top four clubs Manchester United, who are a point behind in fourth place. The Foxes have lost just once this season and are preparing to take on Newcastle United on Saturday (21 November).

The 28-year-old forward's impressive performances have not gone unnoticed, with clubs from all across Europe keeping a keen eye on his progress. Liverpool have been linked with a move for him among others, but Ranieri is adamant that he will not be sold in the upcoming transfer window. The former Chelsea manager, however, admits that holding onto the forward in the summer could be difficult.

"Of course he is intelligent and knows very well that now at Leicester there is a very good group, a positive group who play together. It is good for him and the other players to show their quality in this team," Ranieri said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

"Maybe next season they may choose the best solution for them, but it is important to see also where at the end of the season where Leicester is. We don't listen to the speculation. Jamie and his agent say he is very happy here. We want to grow up together. I hope we can continue all together," he explained.

Ranieri, meanwhile, is hoping that Vardy is 100% fit for the clash against Newcastle after missing out on a chance, due to a minor injury, to make yet another appearance for the Three Lions for the recently concluded international break, when they played Spain and France.

"I hope he is available for us. I speak with the doctor and physio. If they tell me he is OK 100 per cent, he plays. If not, I don't want to risk a player for a match and then lose them for one month," the Foxes manager added.