Phil Hay reports that Swansea City striker Joel Piroe is a target for Leeds as Daniel Farke and The 49ers look to get the ball rolling – and LeedsUnited.News exclusively spoke to Planet Swans to get the lowdown on the Dutch striker.
Hay reported in a piece on The Athletic this week, that Piroe is one of a number of players on our radar. Alongside the likes of Karl Darlow, Nat Phillips, Gus Hamer and more. Piroe has impressed with Swansea in the Championship.
Joining the Welsh side from PSV in the summer of 2021, he has scored 41 goals in two years. Little surprise then, that a number of clubs are interested in landing Piroe – Wales Online say Forest and Everton have made enquiries.
We spoke to Planet Swans writer and Swansea expert Phil Sumbler about Piroe, asking what kind of striker he is, whether he would be a good signing for Leeds – and how much The 49ers would have to fork out to bring him north.
“The main thing is, he is a good striker. His scoring record at this level over two seasons is strong as you are aware. He does need service as he won’t be one of those people who will magically create from nothing with a turn of pace.
“But don’t read that too wrong as there will be moments where he scores a goal in the blink of an eye – Cardiff last season. His aerial prowess certainly needs some work,” the Planet Swans writer told us, when asked about Piroe.
Piroe a target for Leeds, Planet Swans give us the lowdown on striker
Leeds are expected to splash the cash somewhat, especially when the EFL finally ratifies a takeover. The 49ers are aware that cash needs to be spent on a squad that will be dismantled. So, how much will Piroe cost this summer?
“Nothing should happen below £8m. Reality is a 20-goal-a-season striker at this level should be north of double that but with a year left on his contract that will play a part. We won’t risk losing him for nothing,” Sumbler added.
Having watched Piroe for the last couple of years, clearly, Sumbler would much prefer it if he remained at Swansea. But his contract situation does make it difficult. He discussed whether the striker would be a good signing for us.
“Is Leeds a good move? For him, yes. But playing against us twice next season guarantees him his first two goals! We know what he is capable of, you need a striker. It seems a natural fit. Is he good enough for the Premier League?
“He has been so important but he doesn’t have a stand-out attribute (other than goals). Premier League defenders are a step up. Not sure he would have the impact in the Premier League. But top-flight interest bumps his price up.”
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