According to reports from the Sun as cited by Gazette Live, Leeds United could be tempted to make a move for Jordan Hugill if they lose a striker in the summer transfer window. Aston Villa were linked with Kemar Roofe, and that seems like the only departure on the cards at the moment. Leeds United are trying to get Roofe on a new and improved contract.
Hugill is currently contracted with Premier League outfit West Ham United. The striker spent the last season on loan with Middlesbrough where he managed to score six goals for them in 37 Championship appearances. The Hammers signed Hugill in January last year, and they are said to be keen on selling him.
So when a club is keen to sell someone, then it usually means that the player isn’t good enough at that level. His performance in the Championship last season wouldn’t have given much confidence to the London based outfit. However, another loan move looks more likely with clubs like Preston and Sheffield Wednesday interested.
Does Leeds United need strikers?
The Whites have three forwards who can lead the line. Patrick Bamford was signed for big money last season, but he struggled with injuries and form. Kemar Roofe was the standout option for the Whites, but his future is slightly uncertain at the moment. Then there is Tyler Roberts.
With three decent strikers, one might feel that the Whites don’t need to bring in a forward. However, we think that if a club can get their hands on a standout option who would guarantee 20-25 odd goals, then they should go ahead with it.
Can Hugill be that man for the Whites?
Hugill is another run of the mill forward who would not really bolster the Leeds United squad. We think he is more or less on par with Bamford and he is not going to be an upgrade over the options which Bielsa has currently. The report mentions that United would look at Hugill if there is a departure from the striker’s department. Hugill is known to be a hard worker, so maybe that’s why the Whites are seeing him as an option.
However, we think that if Leeds United go through with a deal for the West Ham man, then there will be a lot of disappointment among the fans. He is not that bad an option, but if the Whites want to stop a repeat of last season where they fluffed their lines in the final third, then the 27-year-old forward is not the answer for Bielsa’s problems.
