Leeds United focus on Noah Okafor over Manor Solomon for one key reason

Leeds United remain in the market for a winger despite their 1-0 win over Everton at Elland Road.

Noah Okafor looks to be the player that the 49ers have identified to bolster Daniel Farke's squad, with the AC Milan forward struggling to establish himself at the Italian giants.

A loan move at Napoli for the second half of last season also failed to catch fire, with the 25-year-old only managing to score one goal in Serie A last season.

Despite this, the Swiss international struggling in Italy, he may have been identified as a potential replacement for Manor Solomon for a specific reason.

Data suggests that Okafor is more direct than Solomon

After Leeds missed out on a deal for Igor Paixao, the Whites were linked with potentially bringing Solomon back to Elland Road following his successful loan spell.

This no longer appears to be the case with a deal for Okafor on the brink of being completed, and data from FBref may suggest why.

With Dan James being Farke's first choice right winger for the Premier League campaign, he must bring in a left winger to complement the Welshman.

We are all aware of James' blistering pace and the skillset he brings, but on the opposite flank, Leeds need to have someone they can rely upon to carry the ball up the pitch and take on their man.

Whilst Solomon was phenomenal at this last season, this is something that Okafor excels in even further, according to the data:

• Progressive carries per 90: Solomon (5), Okafor (5.6)
• Successful take-ons per 90: Solomon (2.43), Okafor (2.8)

• Read more: Keith Hackett U-turns on major Leeds vs Everton controversy after reviewing footage

Leeds move a chance for Okafor to get back to his best

After starting just 11 Serie A games across the last two seasons, Okafor's move to Leeds is a chance to reignite his career and showcase the form he displayed at Red Bull Salzburg.

Whilst in Austria, Okafor was sensational, as he scored seven goals whilst getting three assists in the 2022/23 season.

• Okafor managed to record these stats whilst only averaging 48 minutes per game during the campaign

Leeds' game against Everton showed they need more quality in the final third, despite getting the win, and Farke will be hoping that Okafor provides the spark he needs.

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