Leeds United are set to change their January transfer strategy, with reports suggesting the club will now prioritize signing a new striker on a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer.
The strategic change comes as manager Daniel Farke enjoys success with a new tactical setup, reducing the immediate need for a cash-rich leader.
Leeds United prefer striker loan in January
According to a new report from Football Insider, Leeds United are likely to only sign a new striker on a temporary basis when the winter window opens.
Bringing in a prolific goalscorer had been seen as a priority for Los Blancos for several weeks, but a recent formation change is believed to have altered the club’s recruitment focus.
Farke has recently deployed a 3-5-2 system, pairing summer signing Lukas Nmecha alongside Dominic Calvert-Lewin at the top of the pitch.
The duo struck up a promising partnership, providing a balance of physicality and pace that breathed new life into Leeds’ attack.
According to Football Insider’s sources, although the club remains keen to add depth to their forward line, the effectiveness of the Nmecha-Calvert-Lewin axis means a permanent striker is no longer considered an emergency.
Instead, the hierarchy will look for a cost-effective loan solution to cover the rest of the campaign.
Premier League return struggles continue for Leeds
Despite recent tactical optimism, Leeds United’s return to the Premier League has failed to live up to pre-season expectations.
The West Yorkshire team have struggled to manage the increase in quality, struggling to find consistency in results and performances.
As things stand, Leeds sit precariously in 17th place in the Premier League table, just above the drop zone on 16 points.
The narrow cushion separates them from the relegation places, and fans are increasingly concerned that the club could return to the Championship if their form does not improve significantly over the crucial festive period.
Gary O’Neil could replace Farke
Although the recent uptick in performances has given Daniel Farke some breathing room, his long-term future at Elland Road remains the subject of intense speculation.
Reports indicate that while the club is currently willing to stay with the German manager, the pressure has not entirely dissipated.
If results were to deteriorate again, contingency plans would be in place.
It is understood that former Wolves boss Gary O’Neil has been shortlisted as a potential replacement if the board decides to part ways with Farke.
If Leeds’ recent performances can also translate into positive results, there is a chance that Farke could be replaced.
