Leeds United approach the January transfer window with a clearer sense of purpose, placing fresh emphasis on bolstering their attacking ranks as they look to strengthen their bid for Premier League survival.
A recent upturn in form has steadied the season and eased some of the pressure on Daniel Farke, but doubts remain over the side’s effectiveness in the final third. Recent performances have again exposed a lack of cutting-edge, sharpening the case for additional quality in forward areas.
That need has been heightened by tactical adjustments. The shift to a 5-3-2 system has increased the dependence on a reliable goalscorer, while a shortage of attacking depth has underlined the urgency for reinforcements.
However, Leeds fans have been sweating over the future of striker Joel Piroe. The Dutchman has not started a Premier League game in months and is now the fourth choice in a squad that does not have four strikers.
Beren Cross provides an update on Joel Piroe in the January transfer window
Athletic reporter Beren Cross has provided an update on the future of Piroe and what could happen in the January transfer window.
He stressed that the Leeds striker is not angling for a move away from Elland Road in the ongoing window, despite not playing much football at this stage of the season.
Cross insisted that the Dutchman remains confident that if he bides his time, he will get a run in the team at some point and get that elusive first Premier League goal of his career.
Cross said on The Square Ball podcast: “The noises we’re getting are, and I’ve not checked on this for a few days, it’s obviously the Christmas period, but it seems like Piroe at no stage has been difficult or has been complaining or has shown unhappiness with his current situation.
“Yes, he’d want to play more, but the impression is that he’s generally quite philosophical about it. He’s been quite open-minded and sort of quietly confident that my time will come.
“In other words… he feels that if he does stick around, he will have a little run in the team at some point, and it will be needed and will get that priceless Premier League goal for his career.”
Farke has not shown any faith in Piroe this season
Piroe was the Championship’s top scorer last season. His goals powered Leeds to the top of the league table and automatic promotion to the Premier League.
| Appearances | 46 |
|---|---|
| Goals | 19 |
| Assists | 7 |
However, Leeds signed Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha, and as soon as the former was fit to start, Piroe went out of the team earlier in the season.
Farke has often touted him as the best finisher in the squad. However, he indicated that Piroe does not have the physical qualities to lead the line in the Premier League.
The Leeds boss has shown little faith, and it is safe to say Piroe is now the fourth-choice striker as Noah Okafor is starting games as Calvert-Lewin’s partner in the 5-3-2 formation.
He remains hopeful of getting a run, but there is little evidence to suggest that Farke is going to trust him enough at any point this season.
