Nmecha upgrade: Leeds make contact to sign a star who “bullied” Van Dijk
Stay Sharp – Don’t Let Motivational Hype Lead You Into the Danger Zone
As soon as Leeds United’s promotion to the Premier League was confirmed earlier this year, the club’s leadership knew they had work to do this summer. Strengthening the squad was not optional—it was essential.
Leeds have moved quickly so far, securing the free transfer of Lukas Nmecha and finalizing a permanent deal for Jaka Bijol from Udinese. One of the club’s top priorities is improving attacking options, and the signing of Nmecha is part of that plan.
However, there are doubts about whether Joel Piroe can make the leap to Premier League level. Back in May, Football Insider reported that Leeds aren’t convinced he’s the right player to lead their attack next season. If that’s the case, it’s unlikely the Dutch forward will be Daniel Farke’s first-choice striker.
So far, Nmecha is the only new centre-forward to arrive—and there are questions over whether he’s ready to carry the scoring burden in the Premier League.
Why Lukas Nmecha Might Not Be the Answer
Nmecha’s signing is a gamble. Once a promising Manchester City academy product and a full Germany international, his recent seasons have been plagued by injuries and inconsistency.
Since the start of the 2023/24 season, he has managed just 24 appearances for Wolfsburg, scoring five goals.
Over the past four seasons, injuries have consistently kept him out, and his goal return hasn’t compensated.
These stats suggest he may not be able to handle the demands of a regular starting role under Farke, nor deliver the goals needed at Premier League level.
Realistically, he’s more likely to be a squad player—someone to use off the bench or in rotation—rather than a reliable starting striker.
This thinking is supported by reports that Leeds are still in the market for another striker.
Leeds Target Calvert-Lewin as Potential Upgrade
According to iNews journalist Mark Douglas, Leeds have expressed interest in signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin on a free transfer.
The club has reportedly already made initial contact with the former England international, whose contract at Everton expires at the end of the month.
However, Calvert-Lewin’s situation isn’t settled—he’s said to prefer staying at Goodison Park but hasn’t signed a new deal.
Both Leeds and West Ham have reportedly reached out, though talks haven’t moved forward, possibly due to uncertainty around the striker’s decision.
Why Calvert-Lewin Makes Sense for Leeds
If Calvert-Lewin becomes available on a free transfer, Leeds should make every effort to secure him. Despite his own injury history—he missed 21 games last season—he’s still been more available than Nmecha, who missed even more.
The Everton forward has played 38 or more games in five of the last eight seasons, showing a track record of availability that Nmecha lacks.
Beyond fitness, Calvert-Lewin brings proven Premier League experience. He’s been a regular scorer and creator in the top flight, and offers far more end-product than Nmecha has shown in the Bundesliga.
In addition, Calvert-Lewin adds much-needed physical presence. In a match last year, journalist Connor O’Neill described how the “sensational” striker physically dominated top-tier defenders like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.
He won 51% of his aerial duels last season, averaging 3.3 per game—highlighting his ability to compete with Premier League defenders, which will be vital as Leeds look to avoid relegation.
Conclusion: A Clear Upgrade for Leeds
Calvert-Lewin represents a reliable, battle-tested Premier League striker who could significantly strengthen Leeds’ attack. Compared to Nmecha, he offers greater fitness, experience, and impact.
If the opportunity arises, Leeds should act decisively—because staying in the Premier League isn’t about hype or hope, it’s about having proven talent who can deliver when it matters.
