Daniel Farke ‘has mega-money Leeds United priority’ after Mateo Joseph exit
Leeds United have shown no player is bigger than the club after sending Mateo Joseph on loan to Mallorca this transfer window.
The Spain Under-21 international had downed tools at the Whites, and fans were understandably frustrated with his decision not to play during pre-season.
Joseph told Daniel Farke he wanted to leave the West Yorkshire outfit before the end of August, and the centre-forward got his wish.
While Real Betis and Girona were interested in a permanent transfer for the 21-year-old, the Peacocks were adamant on their valuation, but have now left themselves with a priority for the coming weeks.
Leeds to splash cash on prolific goalscorer as Joseph replacement
Joseph’s exit has left Leeds with a glaring issue in their squad ahead of next season.
The Spanish youngster was the Whites’ backup striker last season, giving Joel Piroe some much-needed rest on occasions at Elland Road.
While the West Yorkshire outfit did sign Lukas Nmecha at the start of the ongoing transfer window, his injury record isn’t the most encouraging.
- Joseph came to Elland Road from RCD Espanyol’s youth team in January 2022.
- The 21-year-old struggled for regular game time last season.
- The Whites will hope the Spanish striker can further his development in LaLiga.
Patrick Bamford is also not wanted by Farke at Leeds, and his potential exit will further reduce depth up front.
Supporters will undoubtedly expect the Whites to now go into the market and spend a significant sum to bolster their attack.
The West Yorkshire outfit were willing to pay over £30million for Igor Paixao, and that money should now be used on a new number nine.
Read More: Leeds update emerges on Bilal El Khannouss transfer – ‘Last time I checked…’
Who can Leeds sign to replace Joseph?
Roma striker Artem Dovbyk is one of the names on the Peacocks’ radar, and he may be the perfect signing in West Yorkshire.
The Ukraine international is a robust number nine whose strength and mobility seemingly make him the perfect fit at Leeds.
| Statistics | Serie A |
| Goals | 12 |
| Chances created | 25 |
| Touches in opposition box | 157 |
| Aerial duels won | 43 |
Dovbyk could use his stature to his advantage in the Premier League and provide a different dynamic to Farke’s forward line.
The addition of a new number nine feels like a priority in LS11, but only time will tell whether 49ers Enterprises believe the right target is available.
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