Leeds United have now held talks over a deal for an "outstanding" Rodrigo Muniz alternative, who has scored 85 career goals, according to a report.
Leeds looking to sign striker ahead of Premier League campaign
Leeds' opening Premier League fixture is now less than one week away, with Everton set to travel to Elland Road on Monday August 18, and while Daniel Farke has made major improvements to his squad, he is still looking to get another striker through the door.
That is due to the fact that Patrick Bamford is surplus to requirements, while Mateo Joseph has already joined Mallorca on a season-long loan, and the Whites have identified Fulham's Muniz as their number one target at centre-forward.
A deal for the Fulham star could be on the expensive side, however, with a potential transfer fee of £50m previously being touted, which means the Premier League newcomers may be forced to move on to alternative targets.
According to a report from Leeds United News, Leeds are now stepping up their pursuit of a free agent, having recently held fresh talks over a deal for former Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who is still without a club since leaving the Toffees at the end of June.
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin
The 28-year-old is not the only option on the shortlist, however, with transfer expert Graeme Bailey adding: "Rodrigo Muniz remains Leeds’ number one choice centre-forward, whilst Mehdi Taremi and Josh Sargent are also options being discussed internally.
"However, Calvert-Lewin is also someone they remain hugely keen on. He is the right sort of profile."
While the ex-Everton striker is available on a free transfer, his huge wage demands could be a problem for Farke's side, with the centre-forward raking in £100k-a-week during his time with the Toffees.
"Outstanding" Calvert-Lewin could be solid Muniz alternative
The Sheffield-born striker wouldn't be the flashiest of signings, and there may be some justified concerns over his injury record, having spent prolonged periods on the sidelines during his time at Goodison Park.
Season Games missed due to injury
2022-23 29
2023-24 6
2024-25 15
That said, the Englishman has proven himself as a consistent source of goals over the course of many years, scoring 89 senior career goals for club and country, and he is vastly experienced in the Premier League.
Not only that, but the 11-time England international received some high praise during his time with Everton, with journalist Patrick Boyland lauding the striker as "outstanding" during the 2023-24 campaign.
As such, if Calvert-Lewin is willing to lower his wage demands, he could be a savvy addition to Farke's squad on a free transfer, and there is a feeling he would be keen on a move to Elland Road, having recently sacked his agent in a bid to force through a deal.