Journalist confirms £30m attacker is on Leeds United’s transfer shortlist this summer, ‘From what I’ve heard…’
Leeds United Still in the Market for Strikers Despite Nmecha Arrival
Leeds United may have secured the free transfer of Lukas Nmecha ahead of their return to the Premier League, but the club’s pursuit of attacking reinforcements is far from over. Daniel Farke’s side remains active in the transfer market, with reports suggesting that at least one or two more strikers are being targeted before the new season kicks off.
The arrival of Nmecha—who previously had unremarkable loan spells at clubs like Middlesbrough and Preston North End—has divided opinion among the Leeds United faithful. While some see potential in the 25-year-old forward, others question whether he has the quality needed to make an impact in the Premier League. Regardless, his signing adds another body to Farke’s squad, which is currently lacking in both quality and depth up front.
Concerns over the futures of Mateo Joseph and Patrick Bamford have further fueled the need for reinforcements. Joseph, once tipped for a breakthrough, has an uncertain role going forward, while Bamford’s injury struggles and inconsistent form continue to cast doubt over his ability to lead the line in the top flight.
Striker Search Intensifies
Throughout the summer, Leeds have been linked with a host of forwards as they seek to bolster their options. The club is believed to be prioritizing a marquee signing in the attacking department—one that can shoulder the goal-scoring burden and complement the team’s existing attacking talent.
One of the more high-profile names linked to the club is Nikola Krstovic of Lecce. The Montenegrin international had a decent campaign in Serie A last season, scoring 11 goals in 37 appearances. His performances have reportedly attracted interest from a number of clubs, with Leeds United believed to be among those monitoring his situation.
However, the story surrounding Krstovic’s potential move to Elland Road has been somewhat unclear. Initial reports suggested that he was a genuine target, but subsequent updates from various sources—including some in the Italian media—have cast doubt on whether the club are actively pursuing him.
Krstovic on Leeds’ Radar, But Not a Priority
In an exclusive update shared with Leeds United News, transfer insider Graeme Bailey provided some clarity. According to Bailey, Krstovic is a name that has come up in discussions at Elland Road. However, he is not currently a top priority for the club.
“He’s obviously been mentioned to Leeds at some point,” Bailey explained. “He clearly has. I know for a fact he has, so he’s obviously made it onto the list, from what I’ve heard. He’s just not very high on it. One of many. Leeds aren’t panicking, they’re doing the right things.”
The hesitation is understandable. Despite his solid numbers last season, Krstovic’s £30 million valuation by Lecce is viewed by many as excessive—especially for a player untested in English football. Leeds are known to be operating with some financial caution this summer and would be reluctant to pay over the odds for a player who may need time to adapt to the pace and physicality of the Premier League.
Other Factors at Play
Complicating matters further are reports from Italy suggesting that Krstovic himself would prefer to stay in Serie A and join another Italian side rather than make a move abroad. If true, this would significantly diminish Leeds’ chances of landing him and could explain why the club appears to be shifting focus toward other targets.
The list of alternatives, however, is also shrinking. Tammy Abraham, who had been loosely linked with a Premier League return, has now joined Turkish club Besiktas on loan from AS Roma. Meanwhile, rising Turkish star Semih Kilicsoy—another player reportedly on Leeds’ radar—is closing in on a move to Dutch side FC Utrecht.
Farke’s Dilemma
With the summer transfer window open for another two months, Leeds United still have time to strengthen their forward line—but the urgency is growing. Daniel Farke knows that his team cannot afford to enter the Premier League campaign without proven and reliable attacking options. And with a number of targets either unavailable or out of reach, the pressure is mounting to get the right deal done.
Leeds may yet be forced to spend big to land the striker they need, whether that’s Krstovic or another candidate entirely. Either way, it’s clear that more movement in the transfer market is expected at Elland Road as the club aims to prepare a squad capable of surviving—and thriving—in the Premier League.