Leeds United have some major issues to address when the summer transfer window comes around. Preparing for the Premier League is no easy feat, as seen in recent seasons.
Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Southampton were all relegated after being promoted last year. The gap in quality at the top flight continues to grow every season. Leeds club chairman Paraag Marathe has vowed that he will help the club maintain its Premier League status whichever way he can.
Going into next season, Joel Piroe remains Leeds’ first choice striker. He had 19 goals in the Championship this season, but some recent reports claimed that the club will not depend on him as their main option in the Premier League.
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Leeds United eye new striker
Credit: Imago Images
The backups for the position include Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph. Bamford and Joseph combined to score just three goals in the Championship this season. The 31-year old failed to make a single start all campaign, leading to rumours that he is on his way out of Elland Road. Mateo Joseph has also been linked with a return to Spain.
All of these factors may explain why many strikers have been linked with a move to Elland Road. According to Caught Offside, Leeds United have joined the race for Celtic striker Daizen Maeda. Fulham, Brentford, West Ham, and Crystal Palace are also in the race to sign the 27-year old.
Reports claim the player’s £25million price tag has scared off competition, but Leeds firmly remain in the race.
Maeda is an elite attacking option
Daizen Maeda is a quality attacking option. He mainly plays on the left for Celtic, but operates more in the box. This season, the 27-year old is first for goals (16) and assists (10) in the league. Maeda has also scored four goals in the Champions League and 13 in domestic cups, adding up to 33 goals in all club competitions
For his value, £25million is a decent fee. Leeds need depth in attack, they currently have one main striker and the wide areas lack goalscorers. A move for the Japanese international fills a lot of holes for the club.
and here is me thinking, 33 goals striker,scored across 10 seasons.