Leeds United were linked (Fotospor) with Canadian striker Cyle Larin in the first few weeks of February. The striker is currently on the books of Turkish giants Besiktas but is on loan with Belgian outfit Zulte Waregem. Reports last month had mentioned that Larin might cost around £3.4m in the summer.
However, a new report from the same outlet states that the Whites might have to shell as much as £10.4m for the striker. Larin has nine goals and 11 assists in all competitions for the Belgian top-flight side this season.
What are Larin’s capabilities?
Larin is more of a targetman kind of a striker as he stands in at 6ft 2inches. He is known for his strength and physicality. The Canadian can hold up play well, and he made his name initially with MLS outfit Orlando City. Larin is also known for his smart link-up game which is the reason why he continues to bag assists this season.
Leeds United are in line to get promoted to the Premier League next season. Their transfer plans are likely going to depend on which division they ply their trade in. Patrick Bamford is currently the main striker for the Whites, and he has had a mixed season so far. There is no doubt that Leeds United will need to look for an upgrade over him if they get to the promised land of Premier League football.
Jean-Kevin Augustin is another alternative for Marcelo Bielsa. United have an option to turn his deal into a permanent one for £15m. The Whites might get away with shoddy finishing at the Championship level, but they would need to be far more clinical in the Premier League. Hence, we expect the Whites to spend a good chunk of their transfer budget on a new striker.
Will Larin be worth going after?
Larin has done well in Belgium and in the MLS but the Premier League will be a different gravy. He is yet to prove himself at a tougher level. Therefore we believe that signing Larin if the Whites get promoted would be a risky move. United should have bigger ambition, and they should also be in an excellent financial position to spend big on a striker if they move to the Premier League.
Larin might be worth considering if the Whites fail in their quest for promotion. However, the £10m plus price tag would still be too steep for a Championship outfit. If United can get him closer to his previous price of £3.4m, then he can be a handy player at the Championship level.
