OPINION
Leeds have reportedly “cooled their interest” in signing Middlesbrough forward Rudy Gestede.
Sky Sports claim that the Whites have stepped back in their pursuit of the 28-year-old and are searching elsewhere for a new striker to replace Chris Wood.
The Yorkshire Evening Post report that Leeds had a £6million bid knocked back for Gestede and that Boro value him at £10million.
Thomas Christiansen is searching for a new forward before the close of the transfer window after selling Wood to Burnley for £15million.
The Yorkshire giants have signed youngster Jay-Roy Grot for an initial £750,000 fee, but are still on the lookout for another striker.
Good move for Leeds?
Leeds are probably making a good move by avoiding Gestede as he is not worth the £10million valuation.
The striker has not been consistent in a league season since the 2014/15 campaign when he scored 22 goals and has struggled to replicate that form in recent years.
It would be easy for the Whites to splash out following the sale of Wood, but they need to use that money wisely to bring in the right choice.
Gestede is a good target man that can lead the line well, but there are serious question marks over his finishing.
Leeds can find better value for money out there that will suit Thomas Christiansen’s system better.
This Is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
This deal now looks completely dead with just days of the transfer window remaining and Leeds are known to be chasing alternative forward targets.
Boro manager Garry Monk was never keen to allow Gestede to leave in the summer and he has been a regular for his side at the beginning of the season.
They put a large £10million price tag on his head to deter suitors and that has certainly worked.
The Whites will be unable to land Gestede and could be directly competing alongside his club for a promotion spot moving forward.
This Is Futbol rating: 1/10