OPINION
If Leeds are hoping to secure the signing of Matej Vydra there are reportedly going to have to part ways with well over £10million to get him.
Phil Hay, who writes for the Yorkshire Evening Post, claimed on his personal Twitter account on Saturday that as a transfer fee alone the Whites will have dispense £10million, before the player’s wages are even addressed.
£10m-plus
— Phil Hay (@PhilHay_) June 16, 2018
The Yorkshire Evening Post has previously reported that Leeds feel as though a deal is achievable – but they should look to scrap their reported efforts to sign the striker.
It represents too big of a risk, for all of Vydra’s talents. The astronomical sum of money could hinder any other positional needs for the Yorkshire giants, who aren’t one position short of a promotion push.
Vydra, who has spent time on loan at a variety of clubs before landing in Derby, has shown his inconsistencies in seasons past, failing to impress at Premier League clubs.
However, the Czech Republic international is fresh off the best season of his career, finishing as the Championship’s top goal-scorer with 21 goals from his 40 games.
This breakthrough season could be all that is needed to allow the striker to replicate those feats time and time again, but one must wonder whether he was a flash in the pan.
There is evidence there to suggest this as the 26-year-old has been at Derby for two seasons now, playing in 80 games and scoring 27 goals, 22 of which were scored last year in all competitions.
During his first year, the Czech Republic international only managed five goals, not enough as to warrant such a large transfer fee for the Championship.
Abel Hernandez, the other name that has been linked with a move to Elland Road is a much better option financially for Leeds, and his acquisition would allow the team to address further areas of need.
The former Hull City man is available on a free transfer, and Leeds must make it their top priority to beat Galatasaray to sign him, who have also been linked.