Leeds United’s decision not to sign a striker in the summer transfer window was baffling, as they are thinking about options in that area of the squad.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin has made a solid start to the season, backed by his return to the England squad after being left out of the World Cup squad.
However, Leeds had fewer striker options than last season, as the club allowed Joel Piroe to join West Ham on an initial loan deal in the summer.
Lukas Nmecha’s future at Leeds is also under the scanner. He could leave in January if he refuses to sign a new deal soon.
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Leeds striker target gives the club more reasons to scout him
Tommy Lonergan scored a brace for the Ireland Under-21s against England during the break, and Leeds scouts attended to watch the forward.
An Irish football expert has said he would be a smart signing if Leeds bring him to Elland Road in the near future.
The 22-year-old striker was at it again last week, scoring for Waterford in the FAI Semi-final win over Bohemians on Friday night.
He has now scored four goals in his last three games for club and country, and Leeds are among the clubs that are keeping close tabs on his development.
Waterford manager Graham Coughlan believes Lonergan is a unique striker. He feels the 22-year-old should be called up to the senior Ireland squad to help his development.
“I think Tommy should be called up to the senior team because he’s unique and he’s that age; he should be in the senior team. We don’t have anything like him in the senior team”, Coughlan was quoted as saying by the Irish Sun.
“He should be given an opportunity because he leads the line exceptionally well.
“That will not only benefit him and help his growth but benefit our national team as well.”
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Is he the right fit for Leeds?
Leeds United should certainly consider Tommy Lonergan, but any move for the Waterford striker would need to be about potential rather than an expectation that he could immediately solve their goalscoring problems.
The 22-year-old has caught the eye with his performances in Ireland, and his goalscoring form suggests there is a player worth keeping tabs on. For Leeds, signing a young forward with room to develop could be a sensible way to strengthen their options without committing to the price tag of an established Premier League striker.
However, the jump from the League of Ireland to the Premier League is enormous. Lonergan would need time to adapt, and Leeds cannot afford to treat him as their only answer up front.
If the fee is reasonable and the recruitment team believe in his potential, it could be a smart long-term investment.
