Nikola Krstovic could be set to join Leeds United.
(Credit: Imago)
Alex Charlton
Thu 10 July 2025 15:40, UK
Leeds United are targeting a new striker to aid their Premier League survival aspirations.
Daniel Farke has a host of options in attack, but several of those are expected to be moved from Elland Road on this summer.
Joel Piroe is a worthy option for the Farke, although there are concerns whether the Championship Golden Boot winner can cut it in the top flight.
Nikola Krstovic seemed to have reached an agreement with Roma over his wages despite interest from Leeds, but the Peacocks have been given fresh hope.
Joel Piroe Leeds United
Piroe bagged 19 league goals last term (Credit: Imago)
Evan Ferguson agreement casts doubt over Krstovic deal
While Krstovic appears hot on a move to Roma, reports suggest that he may not get his desired move.
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The striker is in demand this summer after nothing 16 goal contributions in 37 Serie A appearances for Lecce.
Nikola Krstovic’s 2024/25 Serie A statistics Total
Appearances 37
Goals 11
Expected goals (xG) 12.05
Assists 5
Goal conversion 8%
Touches 31.6
Krstovic upped his output last season (Sofascore)
A £25.5million fee has been mooted for Krstovic, which appears to be a sticking point for Roma, with Leeds watching on very closely.
Now, Ferguson seems to be inadvertedly affecting Krstovic’s future, which could play into the Yorkshire club’s hands.
That is because Roma have decided to turn strongly to the Irishman and place Krstovic on standby, according to Corriere dello Sport (10 July).
The Italian outfit are pushing to complete other deals worth more than £43million, and if they go through, they will need a low-cost alternative.
Roma and Brighton have already reached an agreement for Ferguson, with a loan to buy plus the payment of his salary.
If that deal goes through and the Giallorossi retain Arterm Dobvyk, then a move for Krstovic looks highly unlikely.
Now, Leeds have the opportunity to ignite their interest in the 25-year-old again, and he could be the perfect answer for the Whites’ striker pursuit.
Nikola Krstovic Leeds United
Krstovic’s move to Roma looks less likely (credit: Serie A)
Krstovic a better option than Leeds alternatives
Leeds have been linked with several ageing strikers who are available as free agents this summer.
Firstly, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, one of the younger targets at the age of 28; he netted just three goals last season and has a worrying injury record.
Then there is Callum Wilson, who failed to bag a single league goal last campaign, although that was down to limited minutes due to injury and Alexander Isak’s form.
However, like Calvert-Lewin, would the Peacocks really want an injury prone player to lead their line?
Then there is Jamie Vardy, who at 38 years of age must be regarded as a short-term solution.
If Leeds can strike a deal for Krstovic, then at least they are signing a player with potential, and around £25million for a striker with his goal tally seems a reasonable price.
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