Leeds United have decided to halt their pursuit of Carpi forward Jerry Mbakogu this summer. According to recent reports, the Peacocks have ended their interest in securing the services of the Nigerian forward during this summer transfer period. It is believed that the Championship side has informed the Serie B team that they will not be taking up the option to sign the 25-year-old this summer.
Some sources are also claiming that Leeds have sent out a letter to Carpi’s hierarchy which states that they won’t pursue Mbakogu’s signature anymore amidst speculation linking the Nigerian striker with a switch to Elland Road. The Peacocks signed the Serie B ace back in January and had an agreement in place allowing them to sign the Nigerian frontman permanently for a fee in the region of £3m this summer.
It was also reported earlier that the Italian side had dropped their asking price to £2m in an attempt to sell off their prized asset but the West Yorkshire side has decided to look elsewhere as they look to bring in a new striker in this post-season.
Their decision to not opt for Mbakogu’s signature might prove to be a shrewd one as there are better options available in the transfer market. Marcelo Bielsa’s side has been heavily linked with the likes of Derby County’s Matej Vydra and free agent Abel Hernandez, who have both proven their worth in the second tier of English football.
The Whites had an underwhelming campaign last term when they finished in the 13th position of the Championship standings. The new Leeds boss Marcelo Bielsa needs to acquire some quality talents in this ongoing transfer window if his team are to challenge for a top 6 place in the upcoming campaign.
The addition of a new striker remains a priority as they currently lack the necessary firepower up top. The Peacocks has the likes of Marcus Antonsson, Tyler Roberts and Caleb Ekuban in their ranks who are all vying for a place in Bielsa’s starting XI. It is clear that they need a few more options in the attacking third so Bielsa should definitely look to bring in a new forward who can improve his team and add some more competition for places within the Whites squad.
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It remains to be seen what lies ahead in the future of Mbakogu and whether Leeds’ decision to opt against signing him turns out to be the correct call.
