Nadiem Amiri has played little over 70 minutes of football since he flew over to England to talk to Leeds United, only to reject a move – but now, two crucial factors should tempt us to go back in.
Amiri, 27, was a year away from seeing his contract at Leverkusen expire last summer. Leeds made a move. The Germany star flew in for talks and from the board’s point of view, he was expected to sign.
However, as Phil Hay reported this week, the goalposts changed and Amiri chose to turn down a move to Leeds. It saw Leeds tell him he had to organise his own travel back to Germany, to Xabi Alonso’s side.
Hay said, on The Square Ball podcast, it is unlikely Leeds reignite a move, even though Daniel Farke ‘really likes’ him. Bridges have burnt, according to Hay. But should Leeds consider £48k-a-week Amiri?
Amiri has managed five outings – one from the start, albeit against lower opposition in the Cup. A total that equates to around 75 minutes of football. His deal is still due to expire at the end of the season.
Two factors that should tempt Leeds to make Nadiem Amiri move
Fussball Transfers carried a Kicker report over the weekend that said Amiri is pushing for an exit in January. One reason of two, that might tempt Leeds to have a look – he would surely accept, now.
Secondly, Joel Piroe’s drop in form over the last few games strengthens the idea ahead of January that Leeds need a no.10. Harsh on Piroe – who is not playing in his natural position, since joining Leeds.
But, Piroe has managed one goal involvement in our last seven games, starting all seven. Again, against Leicester, he was quiet. Leeds tried to sign a 10 in the summer – Amiri, Matt O’Riley and Kenny McLean.
While Piroe is still a crucial cog, his form means he needs competition, not a replacement. But a no.10 that can challenge him. Amiri’s desire to go and Piroe’s form should tempt Leeds to go back in, for Amiri.
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