Leeds United are approaching the January transfer window with a clear focus on adding a striker as they look to boost their chances of Premier League survival in the 2025/26 season.
An improved run of results has steadied the side and put Daniel Farke in a stronger position, but the Leeds head coach remains keenly aware of the squad’s shortcomings in the final third. Recent performances have underlined the need for greater cutting-edge, strengthening his case for attacking reinforcements.
Tactical adjustments have sharpened that focus. The switch to a 5-3-2 system has increased the reliance on a reliable goalscorer, with the lack of depth up front becoming more apparent, particularly amid Lukas Nmecha’s ongoing fitness concerns.
Leeds are weighing up several striker options ahead of January, and there is a growing sense that securing a proven forward in the winter window could be decisive in their fight to stay in the Premier League.
Fabrizio Romano confirms exit talk around Leeds United linked Joshua Zirkzee in January
Joshua Zirkzee has become a squad player at Manchester United and has looked ineffective in his limited performances this season.
Leeds are among the clubs believed to be interested in acquiring the Dutch striker, who wants to leave Manchester United in January.
However, a return to Italy seems more of an option for Zirkzee, and Roma are pushing hard to secure a deal to sign him on loan with an obligation to buy.
According to Fabrizio Romano, the Serie A giants are advancing in talks with Zirkzee and his representatives over a deal to take him to the Stadio Olimpico in January.
Roma are hoping to finalise terms with the player before working out a deal with Manchester United, who are still undecided on selling him.
Manchester United are dealing with several injuries, and a few of their key players are in the AFCON. An early deal in January seems unlikely.
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Leeds do not need Zirkzee
Leeds do need a striker in January. Nmecha is struggling with injuries, and while Dominic Calvert-Lewin is firing on all cylinders, his minutes need to be managed.
Farke has not shown enough faith in Joel Piroe to start him in Premier League games. Noah Okafor, a winger, has been preferred over the Dutchman.
Leeds need one more striker who can replace either Nmecha or Calvert-Lewin in the starting eleven, and Zirkzee is far from that player.
The Manchester United forward has great technical qualities. However, he has been found wanting in terms of his physicality in the Premier League.
| Tournament | Matches | Goals | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 11 | 1 | 394 |
| EFL Cup | 1 | 0 | 8 |
| Total | 12 | 1 | 402 |
He has a great touch but struggles to hold the ball when bullied by physical centre-backs. The Dutchman is ill-suited for what Farke needs from his strikers.
Leeds should be happy to watch him return to Italy in January.
Zirkee expensive risk?