Leeds manager Thomas Christiansen confessed prior to Saturday’s loss to Ipswich Town that his squad could do with new legs, and even replied when asked if another striker could arrive: “That could be a possibility, but the market is very difficult right now. If that helps the team then of course.”
After watching his men labour in vain against mid-table League Two’s Newport County last weekend, with the duo of Pierre-Michel Lasogga and Jay-Roy Grot putting in shocking performances, signing a quality striker this month became even more necessary.
Leeds have been long linked with Preston North End striker Jordan Hugill since summer, and Christiansen’s latest admission and public demand for a top goalscorer could force the board into breaking the bank.
The £8million-rated 25-year-old has scored 21 goals since the start of last season, with 8 coming this term. While Hugill has been deemed expensive by Leeds, things might change in the coming days on the negotiation table.
North End, though likely to want to keep their man to push for the playoffs zone, are still likely to shift the goalpost as the contract of the striker who handed in a transfer request in August ends this summer.
Leeds need a top striker like Hugill, whom former manager Neil Redfearn reckons would be a perfect signing, if they are to realize their dreams of playing in the Premier League next term.
