Leicester City have loaned forward Kirsten Otchere to Cheltenham Town for the 2026/27 campaign, despite the English-born attacker of Ghanaian parentage making a strong impression during pre-season.
The 19-year-old enjoyed an outstanding run of form for the Foxes, scoring three goals and supplying two assists in four matches. His performances made him one of Leicester’s standout players ahead of the new season and increased the prospect of him becoming more involved with the first team.
Otchere scored against Bristol Rovers, Burton Albion and Spanish side Cadiz during the club’s pre-season schedule. He also created two goals in the match against Northampton Town, underlining his attacking contribution before the start of the competitive campaign.
However, Leicester have decided that regular senior football elsewhere will be the best next step in the youngster’s development. He will now spend the season with English League Two side Cheltenham Town, beginning the first loan spell of his professional career.
The agreement does not include a transfer fee or an option for Cheltenham to make the move permanent. Leicester are expected to monitor Otchere’s progress closely throughout the season.
Cheltenham will hope the forward can reproduce the form he showed in pre-season when he moves into League Two competition. His performances for Leicester had strengthened his case for increased first-team involvement, but the club have opted to give him the opportunity to gain consistent senior experience away from the King Power Stadium.
Otchere’s three goals and two assists in four pre-season appearances had marked him out as one of the Foxes’ most effective performers during their preparations for 2026/27. His goals against Bristol Rovers, Burton Albion and Cadiz, together with his two assists against Northampton Town, provided a clear indication of his potential.
The loan represents a temporary move only, with no permanent transfer provision included. Leicester will retain an interest in his development as he adapts to the demands of regular League Two football.
For Cheltenham, the arrival of a highly rated young attacker gives the club a player in confident form at the start of the season. For Otchere, the spell offers the chance to turn an encouraging pre-season into sustained senior experience.
