Latest reports from the Bristol Post suggests that Leeds United are tracking Kasimpasa striker Mbaye Diagne who is firing at all cylinders in the Turkish league for his side. The Whites were linked with him even in the summer, but the move didn’t go through as the forward didn’t have the required work permit. Apart from the West Yorkshire outfit, Bournemouth and Hull City are said to be in the mix to sign him. Reports also convey that a Leeds scout was in attendance to see Diagne’s side take on Alanyaspor.
Leeds United suffered their first defeat in the league this season, and their eyes might already be turning towards the January transfer window in the hope of reinforcements. Kemar Roofe and Patrick Bamford’s injury had been a significant setback, and therefore Marcelo Bielsa should be looking to bolster his attacking options.
The Senegalese striker has been on fire in the Turkish top division ever since his move there in January from Chinese outfit Tianjin Teda. The forward has managed 19 goals and two assists in 22 appearances. This season, his contribution of 7 goals in 5 games has helped his side to win all their fixtures so far in the league.
Reports in the Turkish media earlier suggested that the striker was valued at somewhere around £3.6m. However, his recent surge in form would shoot his value up further, and one shouldn’t be surprised if he fetches more than the quoted amount in January.
Diagne could have moved to England in this summer only, but he didn’t have the necessary work permit. That situation could be resolved as he is likely to apply for EU passport as he had spent several years playing in Italy. The 26-year-old shot into limelight when he was signed by Juventus when Antonio Conte was their manager. The forward wasn’t able to break into the first team with the Old lady, and his stint with the Italian giants was usually spent on loans at other clubs.
The Senegalese is a traditional target man and has a keen eye for goal. Technically he might not be the best of strikers but give him a little bit of space to swing his boots in and around the penalty box, and he would make the defenders pay. The 26-year-old’s holdup play is also up to the mark and like all natural strikers, he seems to know when and where to be inside the box.
It will be interesting to see whether the forward will be able to play in Bielsa’s setup where the striker works extremely hard and presses from the top. Leeds United should consider making a move for him in January given his goalscoring form and track record in the last few months.
