OPINION
To say that Leeds United’s forward line was lacking in firepower last season would be something of an understatement – and they could be about to lose their top target to Glasgow giants Rangers.
The Whites might have had an overhaul up front 12 months ago, losing Chris Wood and replacing him with the likes of Pierre-Michel Lasogga and Jay Roy Grot, but their new recruits certainly failed to live up to expectation, leaving the club floundering in mid-table mediocrity come the end of the season.
Now Paul Heckingbottom, heading into his first transfer window in charge at Elland Road, looks to be trying to address the issue, but those at Ibrox are giving him something of a headache.
The Sun journalist Alan Nixon claims on his personal Twitter account that the former Barnsley boss is keen on snapping up Oli McBurnie from Swansea, the 21-year-old striker having played under Heckingbottom on loan at the Tykes before the manager moved across Yorkshire.
However, he also states that Rangers have already stolen a lead on their English rivals by tabling a £4million bid for his services, meaning that the pressure is on for Leeds to try and wrestle back control.
McBurnie, a two-cap Scotland international, impressed for Barnsley despite their relegation, netting nine goals in 17 appearances, and his proven talents are exactly what is needed right now at both Ibrox and Elland Road.
If Heckingbottom wants to manage the youngster once again, he needs to make an immediate move rather than play a patient game, for, as Rangers have proved with their three new signings, the early bird catches the worm, and they mean business this summer.