Jesse Marsch has repeatedly insisted that Leeds United are continuing to ‘evaluate’ the market for potential striker targets. The Whites pursued a move for Charles de Ketelaere strongly earlier in the window, but after losing out to AC Milan, it has gone relatively quiet.
Leeds’ need for a new striker was intensified over the weekend as familiar problems from last season re-emerged. Patrick Bamford limped off injured in the first half, but Joe Gelhardt was not on hand to replace him after picking up a dead leg in training that saw him miss out completely.
There are just over two weeks left for Leeds to bring in anymore new players on top of the eight that have arrived so far. Here is a look at four potentially realistic options they could look to target.
READ MORE: Former Premier League referee offers verdict on Leeds United's Diego Llorente VAR incident
Che Adams – Southampton
Leeds are reportedly among the clubs interested in signing Southampton’s Che Adams, who started against the Whites in the game between the two sides. Some reports indicate Southampton would be open to letting him leave this summer and so could be available for a moderate fee.
Adams is capable of both leading the line on his own, and playing just behind, which would fit Leeds’ system well. Whether he is prolific enough, though, is another question.
Goncalo Ramos – Benfica
Another player Leeds are thought to be keeping tabs on is Benfica’s Goncalo Ramos, who has suitors from a number of Premier League clubs. Based on reports, it feels as though Benfica would be open to selling Ramos, but only at the right price.
Ramos is not the most prolific of strikers but is still only 21 and spent much of last season playing in behind Darwin Nunez, who is now at Liverpool. He would certainly represent an interesting option for Leeds.
Joao Pedro – Watford
Reports from the Italian press last week indicated Leeds were close to agreeing a season-long-loan move for Watford’s Joao Pedro, though that does not appear to be the case. That said, Pedro could still represent a realistic option for Leeds to target.
Newcastle United reportedly saw a £17 million bid rejected by the Hornets for Pedro yesterday, who despite his average goal return, is clearly widely viewed as a player with high potential given he is only 20. Pedro is as equally adept as playing down the middle, as he is on the left.
Armando Broja – Chelsea
Perhaps a different type of option to the aforementioned Adams, Ramos and Pedro, Armando Broja is much more of an out and out nine. Several clubs have looked test Chelsea’s resolve this summer, though given their shortage of strikers, he has remained at Stamford Bridge.
A reported £30 million price tag indicates he would be in Leeds’ budget given their de Ketelaere pursuit. Broja’s exit is very much likely to depend on what Chelsea do in the final two weeks of the window.
READ NEXT:
Go here for all the latest Leeds United news
Rasmus Kristensen's about to have the Leeds United screw turned on his starting spot
Leeds United's senior faces hailed as U21s boss Michael Skubala highlights progress
Jesse Marsch given Leeds United food for thought as Crysencio Summerville proves point
Adam Forshaw has already had Jesse Marsch's message on Leeds United pecking order
