According to Nieuwsblad, Leeds United have been given a boost in their pursuit of Cyle Larin. The Besiktas forward, who is currently on loan at Zulte Waregem will not remain in Belgium as confirmed by the club’s manager. The Championship leaders have been long term admirers of the striker.
That means the Whites are now free to approach Besiktas in an attempt to sign Larin, who has been one of the top performers in the Jupiler Pro League this past season. And in this article, we will discuss what the potential addition of Larin could mean for Leeds United.
A new role for Patrick Bamford?
Patrick Bamford has been one of the key players for Leeds United. His performances in the final third have been vital behind the club’s meteoric rise under Marcelo Bielsa. But at the same time, he has been criticised for his lack of productivity, with the player just scoring 13 goals this season.
Bamford’s lack of scoring prowess may hurt Leeds United, who must make full use of their chances if they are to survive in the Premier League. Larin, in the event of his potential arrival at Elland Road, will undoubtedly be considered as a first-team option for the Whites and could, therefore, compete with the ex-Chelsea starlet for a place in the first-team.
However, Bamford will have the advantage of remaining Leeds’ first-choice striker, thanks to the fact that Larin himself is not a goalscoring forward.
A tough choice for Bielsa
Larin and Bamford’s lack of productivity could present itself with a new problem for Bielsa. With both the strikers being known for their work-rate, deploying a 4-4-2 setup with two midfielders and two wingers supporting in behind is by far the most viable solution. It could, however, reduce Leeds United’s effectiveness in the second line of press.
Bielsa is known for his stubbornness when it comes to team selection and formation, meaning he is doubtful to switch to a different formation. But, given the competitive nature of the Premier League, one might have to make certain unprecedented changes.
What’s next for Jean-Kevin Augustin?
One player whose future at Elland Road is certainly hanging in the balance is Jean-Kevin Augustin. The Frenchman joined the club on a short-term loan deal from RB Leipzig in January. But, he has struggled with a lack of game-time, having featured in just 48 minutes of Championship football. Augustin is supposed to return to Leipzig at the end of the season. But things are much more complicated.
It is believed that the Whites are obligated to buy the ex-PSG forward permanently for a fee of €21 million if they do get promoted to the Premier League next season. His prolonged stay at Elland Road can not only affect the Leeds’ transfer activity in the summer, but it can also present Bielsa with a selection dilemma in the final third.
