{"remix_data":[],"remix_entry_point":"challenges","source_tags":[],"origin":"unknown","total_draw_time":0,"total_draw_actions":0,"layers_used":0,"brushes_used":0,"photos_added":0,"total_editor_actions":{},"tools_used":{},"is_sticker":false,"edited_since_last_sticker_save":false,"containsFTESticker":false}
“Leeds United’s Promotion Dream: How Signing the 22/23 Golden Boot Winner on Loan Could Seal the Deal
Joel Piroe remains the focal point of Leeds United’s attack, but despite some inconsistent performances this season, Daniel Farke seems satisfied with the Dutch forward. Or is he?
Leeds are reportedly targeting several strikers during the January transfer window, although they’ve yet to make a significant move.
The window closes on February 3rd, and while Leeds have not yet signed anyone, they’ve been heavily linked with various players.
At the start of the year, 19 players were rumored to be on Leeds’ radar, although many of them have already moved to other clubs. One striker, Mergim Berisha, was targeted but has since joined Augsburg.
Other forwards like Alvyn Sanchez and Willem Geubbels are still linked, but it’s unclear how realistic these options are for January.
Leeds Should Consider Ajax’s Chuba Akpom
One striker currently available is Chuba Akpom, the former Middlesbrough Golden Boot winner, who now plays for Ajax.
Akpom finished as the top scorer in the Championship last season with 28 goals, also winning Championship Player of the Season awards.
Ajax is reportedly looking to offload the 29-year-old before the January window closes.
Leicester City, Marseille, and even Sunderland are said to be interested, but a potential move to Sunderland seems unlikely, possibly due to Akpom’s previous ties to Middlesbrough.
Akpom vs Piroe in 2022/23
Both Akpom and Piroe had standout seasons in the 2022/23 Championship, with Akpom leading the charge at Middlesbrough and Piroe impressing at Swansea City. However, Akpom had the more prolific year.
Despite his recent struggles at Ajax, where he’s scored 23 goals in 67 appearances since his £12.2 million move in 2023, he remains a valuable option.
With options to move to clubs like Marseille or Leicester City, Akpom may also find a return to a league where he previously excelled appealing.
If he were to join Leeds and perform well in the second half of the season, it could pave the way for a big summer transfer and the chance to secure a long-term move to a top club.
