Leeds United approach the January transfer window with a more defined plan, placing increased emphasis on improving their attacking options as they look to strengthen their bid for Premier League survival.
The Whites have already added to their attack this month by securing a deal to sign Facundo Buonanotte on loan from Brighton for the rest of the season. They are still in the market for a new striker.
Recent tactical adjustments have intensified that need. The switch to a 5-3-2 system has heightened the importance of a dependable goalscorer, while limited depth in forward areas has further underlined the urgency for additions.
At the same time, concern is growing among supporters over the future of Joel Piroe. The Dutch striker has not started a Premier League match for several months and now appears to be the fourth choice in a squad that does not even boast four recognised strikers.
Joel Piroe rejects offers from the Championship to stay at Leeds
Piroe remained an unused substitute in the last two Premier League games, and both times, Leeds were chasing goals towards the end of those fixtures.
Leeds have already rejected an approach from Celtic for Piroe as they do not want to strengthen the rivals of Rangers, who are owned by the 49ers.
Middlesbrough have also shown an interest in the Leeds forward, and it has been claimed that a few more Championship clubs have their eyes on him.
However, according to Dutch magazine Voetbal International, Piroe has so far turned down every offer from the Championship in the ongoing transfer window.
Leicester City, Middlesbrough, Southampton, Stoke City, and Birmingham City have all been rejected by the Leeds striker this month.
He is happy to stay at Leeds despite not getting minutes, and is not in favour of a chance in the January transfer window.
Piroe’s decision will impact Leeds transfer plans
Leeds have enquired into the possibility of signing Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen and have a serious interest in him.
The Whites believe they have a chance of signing the Norwegian striker, despite the potential high fee and competition from 10 other Premier League clubs.
However, any move for Strand Larsen will depend on the departure of Piroe, as Leeds need the extra funds and space in their wage bill for a new striker.
| Statistic (per 90) | Value | Percentile |
|---|---|---|
| Non-penalty goals | 0.43 | 74 |
| npxG (non-penalty xG) | 0.53 | 88 |
| Shots total | 2.98 | 78 |
| Assists | 0.11 | 64 |
| xAG (expected assisted goals) | 0.12 | 70 |
| npxG + xAG | 0.64 | 85 |
| Shot-creating actions | 2.54 | 75 |
The Dutchman has shown little inclination to leave, and his decision to reject offers from the Championship shows his determination to stay at Elland Road.
If they fail to move Piroe on in the next couple of weeks, they are unlikely to sign Strand Larsen, no matter how serious Leeds are about taking him to Elland Road.
