Joel Piroe has competition for the starting striker role at Leeds United next season in the Premier League.
The attacker can operate as a number-nine or in more of an attacking midfield or second-striker role, which Piroe has done at different times for Leeds United.
The likes of Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph remain at the club and could play a part next term, while Lukas Nmecha’s arrival on a free transfer from VfL Wolfsburg has bolstered their ranks further.
Of course, there are injury concerns with Nmecha and Leeds could have a number of options to choose from next term, which includes Piroe after starting as Leeds’ striker in 35 league games.
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Leeds fans provide their verdict on Joel Piroe as a Premier League player
Piroe has been enjoying his holidays away from Leeds but the players will be back in pre-season training next week, unless Piroe swiftly completes a move to PSV out of nothing.
The more likely scenario is that Piroe fights for a Premier League place at Leeds and his suitability will therefore be questioned for the English top flight by supporters of the club.
Two responses read: “I actually think the prem will suit him….” and “Think it will suit him more imo.”
Another added: “For some reason I think he’ll do really well…”
A further response stated: “I for one am excited for him. The boy can finish, if he knuckles down, no telling how many he could score. Still time to improve himself and get better.”
It may be immaterial anyway, given how many forwards Leeds could bolster their line with given how much of the summer there still is to go.
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Leeds are targeting another striker on top of Joel Piroe and Lukas Nmecha
It’s already been reported that Nmecha won’t be Leeds’ last striker signing. It leaves the futures of Piroe, Bamford, and Joseph somewhat in question.
It’s possible that Piroe could stay as a bench option for the striker or attacking midfield role, where he could get plenty of game time as an impact substitute.
However, a sale cannot be out of the question for the Dutchman. He is a profit in PSR terms quite easily, while he could also be frustrated if his place in the pecking order is dramatically reduced.
Piroe suiting the Premier League more is an interesting take, given that he lacks athleticism and physicality, even if he has plenty of the technical attributes to be a finisher.
Bamford is not a similar profile or player to Piroe, which is why some may well be scratching their heads over that comparison. Like Bamford, Leeds need a centre-forward who can pin players.
That includes taking the ball under their spell back to goal to alleviate pressure on the defence and get the team up the pitch; Piroe is not that, even if his finishing is outstanding.
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