Leeds United are weighing up a move for Chievo Verona forward Caleb Ekuban. The Ghanaian forward was on loan at Albanian side Partizani Tirana but has ended his loan spell with the club and has returned to Italy after finishing the season.
The 23-year-old came through the ranks of Chievo and had been to a number clubs on loan. But he has so far failed to make the cut to the senior team and Leeds are trying to cash in on this opportunity.
The Championship side had a fruitful season but failed to make it to the playoffs despite having a stupendous season. In the season run-in, they encountered a number of defeats which made it very difficult for them. Leeds are yet to appoint a manager after Garry Monk’s departure who shockingly gave his resignation after failing to get the club to their desired position after the club’s takeover was completed.
Ekuban will take his decision in the coming days and a move to the Elland Road might happen. Leeds are ready to hijack him and are expected to offer a bid of £500,000 for his services.
Tirana are expecting him to sign a permanent deal but he is unlikely to sign a new contract with the Albanian club. He wants to remain in a recognised league and playing in Championship would fulfil his potential.
Whoever becomes the manager will be demanding a secondary striker to ease the pressure off Chris Wood. The New Zealand international is the highest goal scorer in the Championship but he needs someone alongside him to attack relentlessly next season.
Ekuban scored 17 goals in the Albanian league which was relatively new to him. This has attracted the Leeds hierarchy to trigger interest in him as he could be another potential player who might create a difference for the Whites.
Leeds will have to rival Apoel Nicosia who are also interested in bringing the player to the club. Ekuban averages a goal in every two matches and if given a chance he can be a potential threat for the Whites.
Relying heavily on Wood could prove to be very damaging for the Whites as injuries to the player might become a problem for the Whites. But having a player of his calibre would be of great help as a backup.
Chievo are yet to take a decision regarding Ekuban’s transfer and they might retain him with a bid to nurture him at the club.
