Wales Online shares how Leeds United managed to knock Southampton out of the race for Swansea striker Joel Piroe – saying it was through perseverance and ‘working around the clock’ with Piroe’s camp.
Piroe, 24, has sparked enormous interest after starring for Swansea, scoring 46 goals in 96 games for the Welsh side. But also, because the Dutch ace had entered the final 12 months of his Leeds contract.
Joining for an initial £10.5m fee, a move which could rise to £16m in add-ons, Piroe is expected to be a part of the squad that travels south to Ipswich Town on Saturday. So, how did Leeds win the Piroe race?
Well, Wales Online state that Piroe was actually quite keen on a move to Southampton after talks with the Saints, excited to reunite with Russell Martin. But, Leeds did not give up and worked hard to get him.
“The level of effort Leeds made to sign him proved to be a key factor in persuading him to move to west Yorkshire, working round the clock with Piroe’s camp this week to thrash out nitty, gritty bits of the deal.”
How Leeds knocked Southampton out of the race for Joel Piroe
Clearly, Piroe just wanted a move to a bigger club that stands more chance of promotion. Whether that was Leeds or Southampton. He has got his wish, ending up at Leeds. But Southampton clearly tempted.
The Saints are a few weeks further along and the project, and certainly the chances of promotion, might have be stronger on the south coast right now, than they are in West Yorkshire. But it is a sign of intent.
It shows Leeds are still looking to stage a promotion push this season. Hopefully, a few more in the door and then Leeds can put this bizarre transfer window behind them – and concentrate on promotion.
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