Why Leeds would land a star in Carlos Espi amid La Liga-leading reveal

Leeds United are one of many clubs that have liked what they have seen from Carlos Espi.

The Spanish striker looks to be on the move this summer and the Whites could very well be a destination for him.

Although Dominic Calvert-Lewin enjoyed a successful season last campaign, the LS11 side cannot rely solely on one goalscorer.

Should the Englishman run into any injury issues, that would leave Daniel Farke's squad quite light.

A move for Espi does make plenty of sense, especially when you consider four specific metrics that he has come out on top in.

And they could prove exactly why he has emerged on Leeds' radar.

What statistics did Carlos Espi lead last season?

MOT Leeds News has reported on Leeds' links to Espi, with the youngster one of the names being tracked this summer.

Whether the Whites push for the Spanish striker remains to be seen, but various stats show why he has made that list.

According to Data.MB, Espi is ranked first in four key striker metrics per 90 among all La Liga strikers last season.

He ended the campaign with the most goals per 100 touches, with 5.78. He also attempts 25.68 shots per 100 team possessions.

Espi also tops the charts when it comes to goals minus xG per 90, with 0.25. He also is capable in the air, meanwhile.

His 0.24 headed goals per 90 is the most in the Spanish top flight.

What do these stats say about Espi's profile?

It is all well and good looking at statistics, but the numbers tell a larger story about the Spaniard.

Him topping the goals per 100 touches showcase that he is an efficient striker who can often make the most of the ball when it is at his feet.

It is the hallmark of a poacher or a player who thrives when the ball is near the penalty box.

He is much like Calvert-Lewin in that regard.

His shooting frequency can point towards a forward who often finds himself in plenty of space, with his teammates finding him with passes in shooting areas.

That showcases an intelligence to occupy dangerous areas on the pitch.

The goals minus xG showcase Espi as a clinical forward who scores chances that most other forwards would miss.

And his prowess in the air also makes him a multi-faceted striker who could thrive from getting on the end of crosses from the likes of Gabriel Gudmundsson or Jayden Bogle.

Overall, the stats do make it clear why Espi is emerging as one of the hottest prospects in European football and that Leeds are looking in the right direction for a new forward.

At 21 years old, he has plenty room to grow, but he is already showing lots of promise.