Journalist Dean Jones has claimed that Leeds United’s main objective is to bring in a forward to replace Raphinha this summer.
Reports from the Daily Mail have stated Raphinha is set to leave Leeds United and join Barcelona this summer, with the Catalan side finally upping their offer and giving the Premier League side what they want.
Leeds have already made six new signings this summer which add to a total of just over £95m, however, they have sold Kalvin Phillips to Manchester City and are set to receive a big sum from Raphinha’s expected sale.
Despite already making numerous additions to the squad, Jones spoke to GiveMeSport and claimed that the departure of Raphinha will allow for a new forward to come through the door at Elland Road before the window ends.
He said: “I’m told they want one forward to arrive now, and that’s their main objective.
“They’re looking for a figure that can take over for Raphinha, and his sale will eventually allow that player to come in. They’ve done good business so far, and they’re wary of making too many changes in Marsch’s first window.”
Do you think Leeds need a striker?Yes
No
|
TIF Thoughts on Jones’s comments…
Leeds had a really disappointing campaign last term, finishing just one place above the drop zone and has been followed by the exit of Phillips and potentially Raphinha, which looks like really bad news for the Whites. However, Jesse Marsch has used some of his connections to bring in new faces and it seems he is not looking to stop there, especially if Raphinha does depart.
Patrick Bamford was injured for the majority of last season as he featured just nine times in the Premier League, when the season prior, he scored 17 goals in 38 league appearances. So Marsch might see this and want to bring in another forward that can provide goals for his side, especially as it looks like his top scorer from last term is going to leave.
Gakpo would be a good addition but Leeds really need another player to substitute for Bamford. The injuries to Bamford are going to be his weak spot for many more months. Leeds need a replacement to rotate with Bamford now.
Looking back on former seasons, Bamford was critiscised for some of the games he performed poorly in. Surely, common sense suggests we need competition and support for that position. For the sake of conversation on the subject, I suggest Leeds should try for Southampton’s Che Adams.
Still young, Premiership experience, and probably a reasonable buy under £20 million. He would also be cause for Geldhart and the other young guns to be challenged.