Will Smallbone is a free agent after being released by Southampton this summer, and a potential reunion with his former manager Russell Martin at Leicester City has been discussed. Smallbone would be considered of a higher quality than the League One level if Martin can get him back to his peak form. The 26-year-old might prefer a move to the Championship over moving to League One, but rejoining Martin could be what is needed to improve his morale. Smallbone would credit Martin for his superb individual season when Southampton won promotion, which implies he would be eager for the opportunity to reconnect with someone he knows, regardless of the division.

Will Smallbone, a 26-year-old Irish international central midfielder with 15 caps who was recently released by Southampton, might favour a reunion with Russell Martin at Leicester City. Martin is a leading candidate for the Leicester managerial vacancy, and Burnley is also interested in his services. It is suggested that if Martin is appointed, he would be tempted to sign players from his former employers, with Smallbone considered a potentially shrewd acquisition. The player made 10 appearances in the Championship in the 2025/2026 season and once scored seven goals in a single season while being managed by Martin at Southampton. His current Transfermarkt market value is €3.50m. Reports in May 2026 suggested that a free transfer was a possibility due to an expiring contract and fitness concerns.