Leeds United head into the January transfer window with a clearer strategy, placing renewed focus on strengthening their attacking options as they look to reinforce their push for Premier League survival. However, they have a headache to solve in the shape of Joel Piroe.
An improvement in results has brought greater stability to the campaign and eased some of the pressure on Daniel Farke, but concerns persist over the team’s lack of threat in the final third. However, they need reinforcements at both ends of the pitch.
That urgency has been amplified by tactical changes. The switch to a 5-3-2 system has increased reliance on a consistent goalscorer, while limited attacking depth has further underlined the case for reinforcements.
At the same time, Leeds supporters are growing increasingly anxious about the future of striker Piroe. The Dutchman has not started a Premier League fixture for several months and now finds himself fourth in the pecking order, despite the squad lacking four recognised strikers.
Joel Piroe has not ruled out leaving Leeds United in January
Despite the lack of football, Piroe is not looking to leave Leeds at this stage of the winter transfer window. However, he conceded that things could change if there is an offer on the table.
However, he admitted that if he had to leave, he would prefer to move on in the summer when he would have more time to pick a new team.
The Dutchman insisted that he still feels that he can contribute to Leeds this season and is not considering leaving Elland Road at this stage.
Piroe told Voetbal International: “Honestly, that’s not on the cards right now.
“You never know, what if an opportunity arises that you can’t say no to? But personally, I’m not really keen on making a move this winter. Especially because the season is still relatively short and there’s little time to adapt elsewhere. That would be very difficult, I think.
“If I have to make a transfer, I’d rather join during pre-season and get fully prepared for a new adventure. [laughing] After the World Cup, so to speak.
“But I’m not thinking about leaving right now. I still want and can be of value to Leeds and contribute to staying out of the relegation zone.”
Piroe is struggling to earn Farke’s faith
Joel Piroe finished last season as the Championship’s leading marksman, with his goals driving Leeds United to the summit of the table and sealing automatic promotion to the Premier League.
| Games played | 46 |
|---|---|
| Goals | 19 |
| Assists | 7 |
That status quickly changed following the arrivals of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha. Once Calvert-Lewin was fit to start, Piroe was edged out of the side earlier in the campaign.
While Daniel Farke has repeatedly described Piroe as the most natural finisher at his disposal, he has also suggested that the Dutchman lacks the physical attributes required to spearhead the attack at Premier League level.
That view has been reflected in team selections. Piroe has slipped down the pecking order and is now widely regarded as fourth choice, with Noah Okafor and even Brenden Aaronson starting alongside Calvert-Lewin in the 5-3-2 system.
Although Piroe remains hopeful of forcing his way back into contention, there is currently little to indicate that Farke is likely to place significant trust in him at any stage this season.
