Leeds United have hit the 40-point mark and could effectively secure their Premier League survival with a victory over Burnley at Elland Road on Friday night.
With safety now looking more and more assured, Leeds have already started to ramp up their preparations for the summer transfer window.
They are planning to strengthen across midfield, goalkeeping, attack and defence, though signing a striker is expected to be right at the top of their list, given Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s recent struggles.
Leeds have been carrying out checks on several strikers. However, they now have a top target in Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda, who has been in terrific form this season.
Ao Tanaka gives Leeds an edge in the race for Ayase Ueda
Leeds are considering several forwards, but Ayase Ueda has emerged as one of the top options for the Whites ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Feyenoord striker has scored 26 goals this season and is expected to have a major impact on Japan’s World Cup campaign in the summer.
Everton and Brighton also have their eyes on him, and Tottenham’s interest in the striker depends on whether they can survive in the Premier League.
According to journalist Ekrem Konur, Leeds have turned to Tanaka to gain an edge in the race to sign Ueda in the summer transfer window.
Leeds hope that the midfielder will be able to convince his Japan teammate to choose a move to Elland Road over other targets in the coming months.
They want him to put a good word in on behalf of Leeds when they are together with the Japan squad during the World Cup this summer.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s form is a problem
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has played a key role in helping Leeds United edge towards Premier League safety, something they’re expected to wrap up in the coming weeks.
That said, his performances in recent months have highlighted a clear issue: Leeds can’t rely on him to deliver goals consistently at this level over the long term.
If they do stay up, they will need to bring in an upgrade on the former Everton striker, whether that’s someone to partner him or take his place in the starting XI next season.
Standing still isn’t an option. Leeds need a more reliable goalscorer up front, someone who can deliver regularly and make a bigger impact in the key moments than Calvert-Lewin has managed.
