Nikola Krstovic ‘replacement forced’ as Leeds United push to announce new transfer
Leeds United may be getting closer to signing Lecce striker Nikola Krstovic.
Daniel Farke is looking for a new attacker, with doubts about Joel Piroe’s ability to cut it in the Premier League already.
The likes of Mateo Joseph and Patrick Bamford could also leave this summer as they are not expected to be relied upon in the top flight.
Therefore, the Elland Road outfit needs to find a new striker, and the Montenegrin fits the bill for what Farke is looking for.
Leece look for Krstovic replacement as Leeds interest heats up
The forward has been on the radar of Roma and AC Milan, but Leeds could gazump them and secure a £25.5million deal.
Corriere Dello Sport has reported in its print edition (page 25, 30 June) that Leeds are pushing to sign Krstovic, which has forced Lecce’s sporting director, Pantaleo Corvinoto, to look for a replacement.
It states they are in talks to sign Basel striker Kevin Carlos, who is considered one of the first choices if the Whites’ target departs, as he considers his future.
Leeds need to seal Krstovic signing
Krstovic has proven himself at the top level, notching 11 goals and five assists in the Italian top flight last season.
That is exactly what Farke’s side needs in their survival battle, especially given the uncertainty over the futures of Joseph and Bamford and whether Piroe can do it at the top level.
| Stats (Serie A) | Krstovic |
| Matches | 37 |
| Goals | 11 |
| Assists | 5 |
| Minutes played | 3,068 |
The 25-year-old would provide the Whites with clinical finishing and a physical presence up front, which could cause a nuisance for defences at the elite level, and he can hold the ball up to bring his teammates into play.
The Peacocks have also been linked with Rodrigo Muniz, but there are doubts over whether Fulham would want to sell their star man.
They could also make a move for Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who will leave Everton on the expiry of his contract, but that would be a risk given his injury history and the fact that he scored just three goals last time out.
If they sign Krstovic, they would still need another attacker, but it will be a solid start to their business as they look to stay in the top flight.
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