Ayase Ueda. Credit; Imago
One of the problems that affected Leeds United last season, was the lack of quality in attack. Even though the club spent over £100 million in the summer window, it was mostly in other areas.
The Whites ended up adding some serious quality and depth in the defence and midfield, but it felt like the were light up top.
Most Read on The Leeds Press
Daniel Farke shared this sentiment during pre-season, and asked the club to add some quality up front. Leeds responded by signing Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Noah Okafor before the transfer deadline.
Fans criticized these two signings as they felt like the would not have any significant impact on the team.
But things turned out okay at the end of the campaign. Calvert-Lewin scored 15 goals in the league, while Okafor and Nmecha combined to score 15 goals themselves.
Leeds United and Everton compete for major target
Even with the club having made the right decisions, there was still a glaring need for proper attacking options.
The wide areas lacked attacking quality, as Dan James was injured all season and Wilfried Gnonto could not find his feet.
And in the middle of the season, Calvert-Lewin went on a long goal drought. That prompted reports that the 49ers would look to add another striker to the first team in the summer.
So far, reports have linked man names, including Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda. The Japanese international scored 26 goals in 38 games in all competitions.
SportsBoom are reporting that Everton, Brighton, and Leeds United are the main clubs interested in the 27-year old
Feyenoord are open to selling for a fee above £25 million this summer.
But it is also mentioned that the Dutch club are in no hurry to sell the player, and would not mind keeping the player beyond this summer.
READ MORE: “Useless at Leeds” – Roy Keane slams former Leeds manager on The Overlap ahead of World Cup
Whites have a trump card in transfer race
Beating Brighton and Everton to a top player will be difficult, but Leeds have pulled off some crazy deals before.
The Whites cannot offer Ueda European football, but will have a clearer path to the first team. With Joel Piroe leaving, the Japanese striker would directly compete with Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
One thing Leeds also have is Ao Tanaka. Moving to a new country is sometimes difficult for new signings, but when a compatriot is around, it can help with adapting.
If the 49ers are able to splash the cash, Leeds would be getting a quality player up front.
Related Topics