The need for a new striker at Leeds United is an obvious one as the new Elland Road transfer team look to build a side capable of achieving Premier League safety at the end of 2025-26.
Ahead of what is a crucial few months, Adam Underwood has been thrown in at the deep end as the club’s new sporting director. Head of recruitment Alex Davies too, having also earned a promotion.
Joel Piroe won the Championship golden boot but the Dutchman was overlooked in the Team of the Season, largely because Piroe should have scored more. He went goalless for nine games before Stoke.
Then, four goals in one game. A pretty low total too, compared to previous Championship golden boot winners. Instead of Piroe, Norwich City’s Josh Sargent was picked as the best striker in the league.
Josh Windass says Josh Sargent is the Championship’s best striker
Signed by Daniel Farke while Norwich were in the Premier League, Sargent had to contend with injuries but ended the season with 15 goals – four shy of Piroe – and five assists, in only 32 league appearances.
Graeme Bailey has told LeedsUnited.News that USA star Sargent is one to watch for Leeds, which would see Farke reunite with Sargent at Elland Road. Josh Windass has held a Q&A on his Instagram story.
The nomadic Championship striker, who is due to leave Sheffield Wednesday on a free transfer, was asked by a fan which forward is the best in the league and he responded by saying: “Sargent, easy”.
How much Norwich City want if they are to sell Josh Sargent
Leeds are keen to bring in players with Premier League experience this summer and Sargent has that, although he has only managed two goals in 26 top-flight appearances. Others have been linked, too.
Everton’s Beto is an option, as is Newcastle United veteran Callum Wilson and even departing Leicester City legend Jamie Vardy. But Sargent’s form despite injury should be under serious consideration.
Reports this year from Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg state that Norwich want a fee between £13m and £17m for Sargent. Whether Leeds are willing to pay that for Sargent remains to be seen.
