Leeds United’s pursuit of a new starting striker has been ongoing ever since the club confirmed Lukas Nmecha would not be the only signing up top – and Andoni Iraola has given Leeds a helping hand.
When Leeds signed Nmecha, Graham Smyth reported Leeds were planning to sign a starting striker that would go above Nmecha in the pecking order. Since then, Patrick Bamford has been told he can leave.
Mateo Joseph has forced an exit, too. The Spain U21 striker has gone on loan to La Liga side Mallorca for the 2025-26 season, without a permanent option. Joe Gelhardt has returned to Hull City for the year.
Leeds have been left with two senior options up front in Joel Piroe and Nmecha, while 16-year-old Harry Gray is now arguably third choice. Yet, Leeds have not made a signing up front since Nmecha even now.
Andoni Iraola helps Leeds in pursuit of 17-goal striker
One option to change that at Elland Road is Roma’s Artem Dovbyk. Leeds have held talks for Dovbyk and even sent scouts to watch the Ukraine star play against Everton for Roma at The Toffees’ new stadium.
According to many outlets in Italian media, Roma are looking to sell Dovbyk after just one season with the Serie A outfit. That is despite winning the La Liga golden boot in 2023-24, and scoring 17 last term.
A report from TMW says Dovbyk has been offered to Iraola’s Bournemouth as well as Inter Milan and Atalanta. Like Inter and Atalanta, Iraola and Bournemouth have turned down the chance to sign Dovbyk.
Which other strikers have been linked with Leeds this summer?
Dovbyk is one on the list according to Italian reports, while Leeds continue to push for Rodrigo Muniz at Fulham. The Brazilian is Leeds’ priority, though LeedsUnited.News understands there are others targeted.
Graeme Bailey has told LeedsUnited.News that Muniz is one of four strikers eyed by Leeds. The club have held fresh talks with Dom Calvert-Lewin, while Josh Sargent and Mehdi Taremi are also liked by Leeds.
It comes after Andrea Pinamonti rejected Leeds, even though Leeds and Sassuolo agreed a deal. The same said for Rennes’ Arnaud Kalimuendo, with the France striker keen to join another English club.
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