Leeds United have received a significant boost in their hunt for a new striker as one of their main rivals for a Serie A star withdrew from the race.
Although Joel Piroe impressed in Leeds’ pre-season draw with Villarreal, scoring his side’s only goal of the game, Daniel Farke remains in the hunt for reinforcements for his forward line.
The Whites have been persistently linked with a move for Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz, and reports in France have stated that they are keen on Jesse Marsch-target Arnaud Kalimuendo.
Nicola Krstovic was named as an early Leeds target but was believed to prefer a move within Italy, with Roma circling for his signature. However, their capture of Evan Ferguson could open the door for Leeds in an unexpected boost.
Spezia v Lecce - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Image Photo Agency/Getty Images
Leeds United receive a boost in Nicola Krstovic transfer pursuit
With Leeds’ move for Rodrigo Muniz losing momentum, following the emergence of Newcastle United as a potential transfer rival, another option could be returning to the table.
According to Tutto Mercato, Roma have decided to halt their pursuit of the Serbian international, which could allow Leeds to make an unexpected move in the market.
The report states: “Nikola Krstović, on his way out of Lecce, also remains in the background. Roma have definitively withdrawn their interest in the [Montenegrin] striker, having previously pursued him but opted to focus on Evan Ferguson.
“Now, the foreign option remains open, especially the one that could take him to the Premier League, where Leeds are interested.”
MORE LEEDS UNITED STORIES
Although this is a boost for the Whites, with Krstovic previously stating a preference to stay in Italy and the Yorkshire Evening Post distancing the club from the player, it would appear that there is plenty of work still to do.
Leeds United v Villarreal CF - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Nicola Krstovic’s record in Serie A
At the age of 25, Krstovic is entering the prime of his career, having worked his way through spells with Zeta, Red Star Belgrade and DAC Dunajaska Streda.
He earned a big move to Serie A at the start of the 2023/24 season and has enjoyed success in his two seasons to date with Lecce.
Nicola Krstovic’s Serie A record Appearances Goals Assists
2023/24 35 7 5
2024/25 37 11 2
Krstovic has made a total of 72 appearances in all competitions for the club, scoring 18 goals. His returns have improved year on year, with seven goals in his first season and 11 in his second.
As the 24-cap Montenegro international looks set to leave Lecce, whoever signs him looks set to receive a player on the rise.