According to Sozcu, as cited by Sport Witness, Nottingham are leading Leeds United in pursuit of Mbaye Diagne. The Galatasaray forward has emerged a key target for the Reds, who are weighing up a €7 million move in the summer. Although Leeds United have shown interest, they are not too keen on the services of Diagne.
The report goes onto claim that the forward is only identified as a potential alternative to their other targets in the market this summer, thus giving Nottingham a significant boost in their transfer pursuit.
The curious case of Patrick Bamford
Leeds United haven’t exactly done a bad job in the attacking department this season. In fact, they have an excellent creative unit with the likes of Jack Harrison, Helder Costa and Patrick Bamford doing the trick. These players seem to have an excellent understanding between them, with the latter leading the charge.
However, Bamford’s lack of scoring prowess has always been called into question. Although the ex-Chelsea starlet’s incredible work-ethic and technical capability plays a vital role in Marcelo Bielsa’s offensive tactics, it is reasonable for Leeds fans to ask for a more productive centre forward.
In the Premier League, especially, the Whites are unlikely to receive as many chances, meaning they must seize every scoring opportunity they can get, and Diagne, in that regard, should have been an ideal alternative in the number nine slot.
The uncertain future of Jean-Kevin Augustin
Bamford, however, isn’t the only attacking option available at the disposal of Bielsa. Jean-Kevin Augustin was signed from RB Leipzig on loan in January.
However, the Frenchman has endured a difficult start to his career in England. He struggled with an injury after arriving at Elland Road and featured in only three games before the Championship was suspended due to the Coronavirus. Also recently, Augustin has suffered another injury in training.
The forward’s loan deal reportedly suggests that Leeds United are obliged to buy him if they win the promotion in the summer. However, his constant injury problems throughout the year could force Bielsa to make a decision on his future and Diagne should emerge as a decent alternative.
An experienced and proven star
Aside from Leeds United’s lack of depth in the offensive unit, what makes Diagne such an appealing target for the Whites is his experience. The Senegalese international, is, in fact, a well-travelled footballer, having played in Italy, Belgium, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. He has also proven himself to be a consistent goalscorer. With Galatasaray keen on offloading him in the summer, Diagne could indeed be a smart investment from Leeds United’s perspective.
