Manchester City striker Lukas Nmecha is flying on all cylinders during a loan spell with Vincent Kompany’s Anderlecht – taking his tally to 16 goals in 33 games but a recent report claims City are open to his sale, for a bargain figure of just £7million. Below, we explain why Leeds United have got to consider raiding Saturday’s opponents to sign the striker.
Nmecha, 21, has been on fire in Belgium – taking his tally to 16 goals despite previous poor spells on loan at the likes of Preston, Middlesbrough and Wolfsburg. He has finally turned work rate, athleticism and glimpses of magic into pure goals – and his confidence is sky high. Still only 21, he has already played more than 100 games at club level.
Leeds need a striker, despite the form of Patrick Bamford. The uncapped Englishman has defied the odds – scoring 14 and creating six more in 30 Premier League games, but he needs cover. Rodrigo has been hot and cold, playing in a deeper role recently while Tyler Roberts is better from midfield too. Leeds could do with another body as competition for Bamford, then.
With Bamford likely to remain first choice after a brilliant first season, and contract talks said to be underway, the Whites can hardly bring the cream of the crop to Elland Road – only for him to sit on the bench. Similarly, Leeds would be foolish to spend big on a striker if Bielsa is going to keep his faith in Bamford. So, spending £7million is perfect – and that is what 24Hamburg.de claim City want for him, with Hamburg interested.
Also, spending such a figure on a player that is happy to be on the bench as immediate cover for Bamford is going to help. Nmecha, given he is still learning, is likely to be an example of just that. Signing the powerful striker for a bargain £7million is ideal, especially given the connection between City and Leeds – Ian Poveda and Jack Harrison.
