BBC journalist shares what Leeds United must do to be considered title contenders
Leeds United will need to sign another striker if they are to contend for the Championship title, says BBC Sport journalist Jonny Buchan.
The Whites were relegated from the Premier League last term and have since seen the likes of Marc Roja, Max Wober, Brenden Aaronson and Rasmus Kristensen depart on loan.
Wilfried Gnonto, Crysencio Summerville and Tyler Adams are among those still at the club, albeit there is plenty of time left in the window, with Leeds still considered among the favourites for promotion under Daniel Farke.
However, Buchan feels more firepower will be needed up front in addition to Patrick Bamford and Georginio Rutter – both of whom sustained injuries in Leeds’ final tune-up fixture versus Hearts – if they are to be challenging at the very top of the table.
Writing for BBC Sport, Buchan noted: “Promotion back to the Premier League is the aim and expectation, but not everyone is convinced that is possible just yet.
“There is a lot of attacking threat out wide but the final game of the summer schedule saw both Bamford and Georginio Rutter pick up injuries which threaten to keep them out of the season opener against Cardiff City.
“Many feel another striker is a must if the Whites are to be title contenders.”
Can’t argue it…
There is absolutely no denying that what Buchan says here is true.
It is not that Leeds fans should not head into the new campaign with fresh optimism, especially given the takeover of 49ers Enterprises and the exit of former owner Andrea Radrizzani.
But all the upheaval over the past few months, including the appointment of Farke, means no one is really quite sure what to expect of Leeds in the second tier this term.
Up front does seem a problem area, though. Bamford – due to a combination of injuries and lack of confidence – has certainly seen his stock drop and he scored just four times in 28 Premier League appearances last term.
A drop down in divisions may help him rediscover his spark, providing he stays fit, while Rutter – Leeds’ record signing, who joined in January – may also find some form in the Championship.
You do sense, though, that Leeds need another forward to really boost their chances of automatic promotion.
In other Leeds United news, a contract offer for Sam Byram is being discussed.