The search for a new striker continues at Leeds United with just a fortnight to go until they kick off their Premier League season at home to Everton.
Daniel Farke made it clear after Saturday's friendly with Villarreal that the Whites must strengthen their attacking options to compete in the top flight next season. The German has spoken of his desire to bring in a new wide man to replace Manor Solomon, having only added Lukas Nmecha to his forward line this summer.
But with Mateo Joseph, Patrick Bamford and Joe Gelhardt not in Farke's plans going into the 2025/26 season, it is imperative United sign a dynamic new striker before the market shuts on September 1. Nmecha, Piroe and academy graduate Harry Gray are currently Farke's senior options in attack.
"We are not naive," said Farke. "We know that even in comparison to our Championship offence you could say that we are not much improved.
"We know in the offence we are not ready for Premier League level. We've proven we can be ready for one game and for that I am not too concerned at the moment as it stands."
United were credited with an interest in Real Madrid centre-forward Gonzalo Garcia earlier in the window. Garcia featured prominently for the Spanish giants in the recent Club World Cup in the United States. Could Garcia be a potential attacking option for United?
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Spanish outlet Spanish Fichajes say Real Madrid plan keep Endrick as their first-choice number nine for the upcoming campaign and send Garcia out on loan build up his experience. The report adds that Madrid will review the situation in December, with the possibility of Garcia returning in January if Endrick struggles for form.
Getafe are among the Spanish suitors reportedly interested in Garcia's services. Garcia, regarded as one of Spain's brightest prospects, reportedly has a £42.3m release clause, though some clubs value him at closer to £30million. Garcia had also been closely tracked by the Whites' Premier League rivals Sunderland but the Black Cats are said to have cooled their interest in the player following the season-long loan signing of Chelsea striker Marc Guiu.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano says Garcia is on the brink of signing a new contract at Real Madrid, ending speculation over a permanent move this summer. Garcia's present contract runs until 2027.
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