The Athletic’s Phil Hay has urged Leeds United to sign Aleksandar Mitrovic. During his Q&A with some of the club’s fans, the journalist was asked who he would buy if he could cherry-pick any current Championship player and bring him to Elland Road. His answer was clear.
Hay said: “Aleksandar Mitrovic, naturally — although I always say to people that Mitrovic is a freak in this league: in financial terms, a mile above what your typical Championship club can afford. The Fulham striker is only 25, so he’s got plenty of good years ahead of him.”
In the event Leeds are promoted this season, do you believe Mitrovic can be lured to Elland Road?
Yes
No
The Serbian international is currently the division’s top goalscorer with 23 goals in 34 appearances this season and therefore, we can understand why he is much sought after. Fulham, the striker’s current employers, are also in the hunt for automatic promotion, although they currently find themselves six points behind West Bromwich Albion in second despite boasting the league’s top marksman.
TIF Tactics – Could he be the man to knock Bamford off his pedestal?
Patrick Bamford currently leads the line for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, but has only netted 13 league goals for the Whites – 10 less than Scott Parker’s striker, so you could argue Mitrovic would be a significant upgrade in that position.
However, despite signing Jean-Kevin Augustin in January and having previously had Arsenal’s Eddie Nketiah on loan, Marcelo Bielsa has usually looked to the Englishman to spearhead his attack. Bamford has started in 95% of Leeds United’s Championship fixtures this season to further evidence his value in the boss’ eyes.
Aleksandar Mitrovic is currently valued at £22.5m (via Transfermarkt.co.uk) – so it could be argued that Fulham would demand more than the £22.2m they paid for him in July 2018.