before the Foxes appointed Claude Puel, according to reports in Italy.
The Italian coach, who famously led Leicester to the Premier League title back in 2016, was sacked after a poor run of results last season but will forever be heralded for his achievements at the King Power Stadium.
Ranieri now coaches Nantes in France and has enjoyed a good start to the season in Ligue 1.
However, according to Corriere dello Sport, the 66-year-old reportedly told Leicester "no, thank you" when offered the chance of a sensational return following the sacking of Craig Shakespeare.