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Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Tue 24 March 2026 11:30, UK

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Leeds United look set to allow Joel Piroe to leave this summer as they plan to sign a new striker to compete with Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

Piroe has struggled for opportunities at Leeds this season, despite firing them to the top flight last term with 19 league goals to win the Championship golden boot.

The 26-year-old has not started a Premier League match since late August, with one goal in 17 appearances across all competitions so far in 2025-26.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, Piroe’s future remains uncertain ahead of the summer after he was linked to Rangers and Celtic during the January window.

Leeds’ transfer plans will hinge on which league they are in for 2026-27, with a new centre-forward arrival on their radar if they do manage to avoid relegation.

Joel Piroe could fall victim to Leeds strengthening their forward line

Dominic Calvert-Lewin has scored 10 league goals this season and earned an England call-up for the latest friendlies, but has also struggled for form in recent months.

His drop-off has reinforced the Whites’ desire to sign a new striker in the summer, with Piroe likely to make way if another forward is brought in.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “If (Leeds) stay up this season, I’m sure they’ll be looking to build on what they’ve achieved, and they will be looking to bring in attacking reinforcements.

“There’s no doubt about that, because there’s speculation regarding the long-term future of Joel Piroe.

“I don’t think Calvert Lewin’s form or anything like that will have any major impact on Leeds’ plans.

“I think they’ll be looking to strengthen in all areas of the team, especially if they do secure Premier League survival.”

Leeds are battling Crystal Palace to sign Patrick Agyemang

One potential Piroe replacement is Derby County and USA striker Agyemang, who has scored 10 goals in 35 Championship appearances this season.

The 25-year-old has filled in for the injured Carlton Morris with ease in recent months, and his strong form has left the Rams with a real chance of making the playoffs as it stands.

Sources have told Football Insider that Leeds and Crystal Palace want Agyemang this summer, with Derby set to demand a significant fee for his services.

Leeds look well-placed to sign the USA frontman if John Eustace’s side do miss out on promotion to the top flight, which, in turn, could spell the end of Piroe’s time at Elland Road.