Before the end of last season, reports emerged that Leeds United had concerns over one position in attack. But the club managed to finish the season on a high as they survived relegation.
Leeds stuttered in the first few weeks of 2026, despite coming into the New Year in strong form.
A lot of it had to do with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s drought at that part of the season. The club’s top striker was in great form, but hit a barren run which coincided with not so great results.
That time saw reports of Leeds targeting a center forward in this summer window.
Per sources, the club wanted a player who was good enough to compete with Calvert-Lewin going forward.
Leeds United target gives green light for summer transfer
Leeds United have been focused on sorting pressing issues in some squad areas so far.
They have brought in Harry Wilson to improve the quality in attack last season, and Tarik Muharemovic, who will fill the gap left by Pascal Struijk. Struijk joined Premier League rivals Brighton last month.
The 49ers are targeting a triple swoop for Julian Brandt, James Trafford and Shea Charles.
So far, there has been no concrete interest in a new center forward. But one player Leeds can rule out is Juventus striker Lois Openda.
🚨🔴🔵🇧🇪 #Ligue1 |
✍️ Comme révélé sur @footmercato il y a quelques jours, Loïs Openda a donné son accord pour rejoindre l’OL.
❗️ Discussions entre les clubs…
Avec @sebnonda pic.twitter.com/g4xQOd93k1
— Santi Aouna (@Santi_J_FM) July 23, 2026
Foot Mercato’s Santi Aouna is reporting that the Belgian striker has given the green light for a summer move. He is likely to join Lyon in Ligue 1 after a poor season in Italy.
Talks have begun between both clubs to sort out a deal for the 26-year old.
READ MORE: Major Leeds United exit edges closer after latest transfer development
Lois Openda was never a good option for Leeds
It is probably for the best that the club avoided a move for Openda.
The Belgium had a horrible spell when he joined Juventus; a poor goal tally and even worse performances on the field. The Italian club are said to be keen to offload the striker this summer.
They will push for any club that takes him to offload him, as they plan to recoup their outlay.
Openda would have been a horrible fit for English football; he is not the tallest or the quickest, and has issues in front of goal. Leeds signing him would have been a bad move.
The 49ers have to enter the market for a new center forward. Calvert-Lewin needs competition, and Daniel Farke’s side need quality options to rely on.
