Leeds ‘expect’ to sign ‘top-class’ striker after Dominic Calvert-Lewin verdict
Leeds United are still planning to sign a top-class striker in the January transfer window despite being pleased with Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s displays.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that Daniel Farke still wants a “top-class” striker to lead the line.
While there is an acceptance that it may be difficult to afford the level of player they need, Leeds are prepared to make a move should an opportunity arise.
This comes despite Football Insider’s reveal that Leeds are prioritising other key positions rather than a new striker thanks to their recent goalscoring exploits.
Calvert-Lewin scored as Leeds drew 3-3 with Liverpool at Elland Road, having also found the net in their previous two games against Chelsea and Man City.
Leeds set sights on new striker after Dominic Calvert-Lewin twist
Brown warned Football Insider in September that Leeds are in big trouble and are at risk of relegation as a result of their lack of attacking firepower.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted that reinforcements are still needed despite the recent run of form.
“Leeds will still want to sign a new striker,” he told Football Insider.
“It’s easy to get caught up in recent results, and Calvert-Lewin has been very impressive, but that doesn’t take away from all of the games when he wasn’t performing.
“He’s going through a good spell of form and for his sake I hope he can keep that up, but that doesn’t mean Leeds should be prepared to put their faith in him.
“The problem they’ve got is, it’s not easy to sign strikers in the January transfer window, especially ones of the quality they need, for the money they are willing to spend.
“They want a top-class option to score them goals in the Premier League, but the only way they’ll get one of those types of players is by spending big.
“If an opportunity comes up to bring somebody in for a reasonable price, I expect it’s something they’ll look into, but it’s going to be difficult.”
Daniel Farke has saved his job at Elland Road
Calvert-Lewin’s performances, while they are unlikely to have changed the club’s transfer stance, may have played a key role in saving Farke’s job.
Football Insider exclusively revealed that Leeds will give Farke two games to save his job, before results against Chelsea and Liverpool secured his position.
Meanwhile, Brown told Football Insider that Farke is safe in his role at Leeds and the club hope to back him as the man to keep them in the Premier League.
Brown told Football Insider on 1 December that Farke is fighting for his job at Leeds, and something would have to change to keep him in the role.
Following recent tactical tweaks and outstanding performances against Man City, Chelsea, and Liverpool, he has given himself a strong chance.
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