It is only the second day of the winter transfer window, but Leeds already have to cross one target off the list.
Daniel Farke has put Leeds in a fantastic position to attract players to Elland Road this month after the 0-0 draw at Anfield put seven points between the Whites and West Ham, who occupy 18th place.
The east Londoners are clearly panicking after winning just 14 points from the first 19 games, and as a result, have now quickly moved to strike an agreement for Leeds target Taty Castellanos.
West Ham beat Leeds United to Taty Castellanos
A story from Gazzetta dello Sport recently claimed that Leeds were ‘persistently pushing’ to sign the Argentina international, but had reservations about meeting the £26m asking price.
Which striker would you like at Leeds the most? 🤑
However, West Ham have now decided to cough up the cash given their perilous position in the Premier League.
Fabrizio Romano claims the Hammers have agreed a €29m (£25.3m) fee with Lazio for Castellanos, who is now set to undergo a medical ahead of signing a ‘long-term’ contract.
Not only did Italian media outlets claim Leeds wanted to sign the South American, but The Times add that the Whites were directly rivalling West Ham for the Argentine’s signature, so this news will come as a blow to the 49ers.
The Times also make it clear that Leeds have wanted the striker since his days at New York City – who he left to join Lazio in 2023.
Nevertheless, it is not that much of a setback for Leeds. Castellanos has only scored two goals in ten Serie A appearances so far this season, and also missed six games due to a hamstring injury, so it is an expensive gamble for West Ham.
Other strikers Leeds United can turn to after West Ham reach Taty Castellanos agreement
Castellanos was not the only striker being considered by Leeds, so there are backup options to pursue.
The Daily Mail believe backroom staff at Leeds adore Troy Parrott of AZ Alkmaar and would love the 49ers to bring him to Elland Road. The Irishman can boast 16 goals in 22 appearances so far this season.
Which player would you be happy for Leeds to sell in January to fund their transfer business? Let us know in the comments… 🤔💰
The likes of Joel Piroe and Willy Gnonto are struggling to force their way into Farke's plans.
Chelsea duo Raheem Sterling and Tyrique George have also been linked to Leeds – both of whom can play as central strikers or out wide.
There is also interest in Danny Namaso, another player Leeds have admired for years – since the summer of 2020 to be exact, according to the Daily Mail – and can be signed from Porto for around £5m.
Therefore, Leeds have plenty to focus on despite missing out on Castellanos to relegation rivals West Ham.
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