Agreement reached: Leeds United agree £19.6million deal to sign striker

Leeds United Close in on Nikola Krstovic as Premier League Preparations Intensify

Leeds United are making significant strides in their summer recruitment drive as they prepare for a highly anticipated return to the Premier League. The club is reportedly on the verge of securing a major addition to their attacking options, with a deal for Lecce striker Nikola Krstovic now edging closer to completion.

According to reports from Italian publication Corriere dello Sport (via Football365), the Yorkshire club have agreed a transfer fee in the region of £19.6 million with Serie A outfit Lecce for the 24-year-old forward. This marks a decisive move by Leeds as they seek to bolster their frontline with proven talent capable of coping with the physical and tactical demands of top-flight English football.

A Striker Tailored for Premier League Football

Krstovic, who enjoyed a solid 2024/25 campaign with Lecce, has caught the eye with his strength, tireless work ethic, and ability to lead the line effectively. His robust style of play, combined with a keen sense for goal-scoring opportunities, has made him an appealing target for Leeds’ recruitment team. The Montenegrin striker demonstrated the kind of qualities last season that align well with the Premier League’s fast-paced and physical nature—traits that manager Daniel Farke sees as vital to the club’s chances of survival and competitiveness next season.

Deal Agreed Between Clubs, Player Yet to Commit

While Leeds and Lecce have reportedly reached a consensus on the financial terms of the deal, the transfer is not yet finalised. The remaining hurdle lies in negotiating personal terms with the player himself. Despite Leeds’ eagerness to bring Krstovic to Elland Road, the striker has not yet agreed to make the switch to England.

Reports suggest that Krstovic is currently hesitant about leaving Italy, where he has settled both professionally and personally. The 24-year-old appears content with life in Serie A, which has cast some doubt over whether he will accept Leeds’ offer. However, the Championship play-off winners remain undeterred.

Leeds Pulling Out All the Stops

Determined to secure their target, Leeds are reportedly putting together a lucrative wage package in a bid to persuade Krstovic. The club is also said to be holding direct negotiations with the player’s representatives, hoping that the prospect of playing in the Premier League—alongside an attractive financial proposal—will be enough to sway his decision.

The Whites are keen to present Krstovic not only with a strong financial incentive but also with a clear vision of the role he would play in the squad. The coaching staff see him as a key figure in their offensive setup, capable of making an immediate impact.

A Key Piece in Farke’s Attacking Puzzle

If the move does go through, Krstovic would be expected to provide much-needed firepower to a Leeds attack that occasionally lacked cutting edge during the 2024/25 campaign. Although Joel Piroe chipped in with a number of goals last season, questions have been raised about his overall efficiency in front of goal—particularly at Premier League level.

Farke is eager to add depth and variation to his attacking options, and Krstovic’s profile fits the bill. In addition to his goal-scoring abilities, the Montenegrin is known for his ability to hold up the ball, involve teammates in play, and create space in the final third—qualities that could elevate the overall dynamic of Leeds’ forward line.

Waiting on a Decision

As things stand, the ball is in Krstovic’s court. While the groundwork has been laid for a potential move to Elland Road, the final outcome hinges on the striker’s willingness to embark on a new chapter in England. Leeds will hope that the allure of Premier League football, along with the promise of a central role in their long-term project, will be enough to seal the deal.

Fans will now await further developments, with many hoping that Krstovic becomes the next marquee signing to lead Leeds’ charge in the top flight.