Leeds United need to add another striker in January, and Daniel Farke cannot afford to ignore the problem for much longer. Dominic Calvert-Lewin has become the focal point of the attack, but Lukas Nmecha has not provided enough competition, while the team remain short of reliable goals from other positions.
The January market is never straightforward, particularly for a club that cannot compete financially with the Premier League’s biggest spenders. Leeds need to be smart, targeting forwards who are either struggling for opportunities at their current clubs or have the potential to develop into valuable first-team players.
Three names are worth considering, though they offer very different solutions to Farke’s problem.
1. Folarin Balogun – Monaco
Balogun is arguably the most attractive option if Leeds want someone who can make an immediate impact. The American international has fallen down the pecking order at Monaco, and his representatives are exploring potential moves ahead of January.
The 25-year-old scored 13 goals in 30 Ligue 1 appearances last season and added four assists. His record this season has been more modest, with one goal in five league appearances, all as a substitute.
His situation makes him an interesting opportunity. Balogun has shown he can score regularly in European football, including during his loan spell at Reims, when he found the net 21 times in Ligue 1.
He would offer something different to Calvert-Lewin, particularly with his movement and willingness to run in behind. A loan with an option to buy could be the most sensible way for Leeds to explore the deal.
2. Tommy Lonergan – Waterford
Lonergan is a much younger and potentially cheaper alternative. The 22-year-old Republic of Ireland forward has enjoyed an excellent 2026 campaign with Waterford, scoring 16 goals and providing eight assists in 34 League of Ireland appearances.
Those numbers are difficult to ignore, particularly considering Waterford’s circumstances. Lonergan has become one of the division’s most productive forwards and has also attracted attention through his performances for the Republic of Ireland Under-21s.
He is not a ready-made Premier League striker, and Leeds would need to be realistic about how long he needs to adapt. However, he could be a relatively affordable investment with considerable room for development.
Leeds have already been reported to be monitoring him, making him a name worth keeping an eye on.
3. Yassir Zabiri – Rennes
Zabiri is another young forward who has caught Leeds scouts’ attention. The 21-year-old Moroccan is currently on loan at Racing Santander from Rennes and has made an extraordinary start to life in Spain.
He has scored eight goals in 11 LaLiga appearances, playing 714 minutes and starting eight matches. That is an impressive return for someone still establishing himself at senior level.
Rennes remain in control of his longer-term future, with his current loan at Racing Santander carrying no buy option. That means Leeds would need to negotiate with the French club rather than approach Santander directly.
Zabiri’s scoring record makes him an exciting prospect, but his growing reputation could make a January deal difficult.
Which striker should Leeds prioritise?
Balogun is the most convincing option for the immediate future. He has experience in England and has already shown he can score regularly in a major European league.
Lonergan would be a sensible investment in potential, while Zabiri’s performances suggest he could develop into a high-quality striker.
Ultimately, Leeds need someone who can contribute goals straight away. Farke cannot keep relying on Calvert-Lewin to shoulder the burden, and January represents an important opportunity to address that weakness.
