Leeds United could soon bring on board a player the squad faced in pre-season, answering all of their transfer woes ahead of the Premier League season.
There was an unmistakeable disappointment when the Yorkshire side missed out on Igor Paixao earlier in the window.
The club have since secured other signings, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin whose injury record has flagged up some concerns with fans, but not the all out attacking reinforcements Daniel Farke has been crying out for.
Although Leeds have now been dealt a truly positive update on a potenital striker, who has been dubbed ‘Erling Haaland 2.0.’
Noah Okafor playing for AC Milan.
Photo by Tim Clayton/Getty Images
Noah Okafor could soon answer Leeds United’s striker call
Leeds United faced AC Milan in a pre-season friendly last weekend, the game finished 1 – 1 with impressive performances from Anton Stach and Ao Tanaka.
One player who featured for AC Milan was striker Noah Okafor, who has attracted the attention of the Leeds hierarchy.
Transfer expert Graeme Bailey has shared an update with LeedsUnited.News on the Whites potential interest: “You could see someone like that. There’s an interest there.
“He’s being offered, AC Milan are trying to move him on, he’s not really in Allegri’s plans massively.
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“He’s not bad. He’s clearly an upgrade on what Leeds have got. Okafor obviously comes from the RedBull factory too, so bear that in mind.”
Okafor’s Red Bull connection could work in Leeds’ favour, he used to play for Red Bull Salzburg.
Having spent three and a half years with the Austrian side, Okafor is a product of the high-pressing, attacking football philosophy that is synonymous with the Red Bull brand.
This tactical background means he would be a perfect fit for the style of play Leeds want to implement. With Red Bull now a minority shareholder and front-of-shirt sponsor, Leeds have a direct link to the Red Bull football network, providing a key edge for the Yorkshire side.
Noah Okafor playing for AC Milan.
Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images
How Noah Okafor would fit in at Leeds United if he signs
Noah Okafor played the full 90 minutes against Leeds last week, received a match rating of 6.9, and did not score or register an assist.
Okafor can play as a central striker or on the wings, which would offer Leeds United tactical flexibility. His ability to press opponents could make him a valuable asset in both attacking and defensive phases for the newly promoted Premier League side.
Looking at his 2024/25 season statistics, which include a loan spell at Napoli, Okafor made 15 appearances in Serie A and scored one goal. He had a passing accuracy of 80.0%, completed 14 successful dribbles, and created 7 chances.
These numbers, combined with his recent performance against Leeds, showcase his potential to be a key player for them, particularly alongside players like Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto.