Leeds United lose yet another transfer race as Nottingham Forest star opts to not move to Elland Road as their striker woes continue.
Last week it was reported that Leeds United had joined the race for one Forest striker, setting up a potential transfer battle with Portuguese giants Sporting CP.
After Leeds missed out on Igor Paixao, who chose Marseille instead, the club and fans thought their prayers had been answered.
Although, the Whites have been dealt yet another transfer blow as their turmoil continues.
Nottingham Forest v ACF Fiorentina - Pre-Season Friendly
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Jota Silva looks set to join Sporting CP, not Leeds United
According to Portuguese news outlet, Record, Sporting CP have won the race for Jota Silva.
Nottingham Forest reportedly spoke with Sporting CP again yesterday and a deal is reportedly being drawn up.
Good news for Sporting, but bad news for Leeds United, missing out on another attacking reinforcement which Daniel Farke has asked for.
It was thought Silva would fit into Leeds United’s squad as a versatile attacker, primarily operating as a right winger, but also on the left wing and as a centre-forward, offering Daniel Farke significant tactical flexibility.
MORE LEEDS UNITED STORIES
He could have provided a dynamic option alongside or in place of Joel Piroe or new signing Lukas Nmecha.
Last season, in the 2024/2025 Premier League campaign with Nottingham Forest, Silva featured in 31 matches, with five starts and 26 substitute appearances. Yet again, it’s back to the drawing board for the Peacocks.
Everton v Fulham - Carabao Cup Quarter Final
Photo by Joe Prior/Visionhaus via Getty Images
Leeds United now need to focus on signing Everton’s Beto
Given Everton manager David Moyes’s willingness to sell Beto, Leeds United should prioritise securing his signature. This would provide Daniel Farke with a valuable attacking option to lead the line alongside Piroe and Nmecha.
While Jota Silva was a target, the transfer fees for the two players are notably different. Reports suggest Beto could cost Leeds approximately £30 million. In contrast, Jota Silva’s valuation is around £13 million.
Although Beto is more expensive, buying a higher-priced player could pay off in the long run if he provides a greater impact and helps the team achieve its goals.
During his 60 Premier League appearances for Everton, Beto scored 11 goals. A key strength is his aerial ability, winning a high percentage of duels and making him a constant threat on crosses and set-pieces. Beto could lead the line as a traditional target man, using his strength to occupy defenders and create space for mobile attackers like Joel Piroe.
Focusing on Beto now makes sense, as he offers a proven Premier League presence and a unique physical profile that could immediately benefit the squad.