Leeds’ Summer Survival Plan Hinges on New Goal Machine
The race to stay in the Premier League has already begun at Elland Road, and signing a proven goalscorer is at the top of Adam Underwood’s to-do list. With Daniel Farke’s side scrambling for firepower, Leeds simply cannot rely on uncertainty up front.
Patrick Bamford’s Premier League pedigree is undeniable, but a goalless 2024–25 season highlights his limitations. Meanwhile, Joel Piroe’s lack of top-flight experience raises fresh questions about his suitability as the club’s main striker.
Adding to the headache, Mateo Joseph’s disappointing three-goal haul has sparked interest from Real Betis. If Leeds lose their Spanish prospect, the need for attacking reinforcements becomes even more urgent.
Vanat’s Release Clause Emerges as a Potential Bargain
Vladyslav Vanat rocketed to prominence at Dynamo Kiev this season, notching 21 goals and laying on eight assists in his best campaign to date. According to Ukrainian reports, a £17 million release clause could see the 22-year-old head to England for a fraction of the usual outlay.
That figure has alerted Leeds scouts, who view Vanat as a smart gamble. While the Ukrainian league isn’t the Premier League, his eye-catching numbers suggest he can adapt quickly to a higher level.
From my perspective, a low-risk, high-reward deal for a young forward still on the rise makes perfect sense. If Vanat replicates even half of his Dynamo form, Leeds could have unearthed a genuine gem.
Piroe vs. Vanat: Senior Career Numbers in Context
Comparing Piroe and Vanat reveals a stark contrast. Piroe managed 19 goals and four assists for Swansea and PSV combined, but none came at England’s top tier. Vanat, by contrast, has delivered consistently in Ukraine’s elite competition.
Vanat’s tally: 21 goals, eight assists in 37 games this season. Piroe’s tally: 17 goals, six assists in 39 senior outings, none at Premier League level.
Leeds fans deserve boldness rather than safe bets. I believe betting on Vanat’s trajectory is a smarter move than hoping Piroe suddenly finds his scoring boots against the best in world football.
Other Targets: Balancing Experience and Momentum
Leeds have also been linked with seasoned operators like Callum Wilson—out of contract in the summer—and Everton’s in-form Beto. Both offer proven Premier League pedigree, but their price tags and wage demands could stretch the budget.
Wilson’s knack for poaching goals would solve immediate problems, while Beto’s blistering finish rate makes him a tempting option. However, neither represents the young, sell-on asset that Underwood might prefer.
Ultimately, Leeds must weigh short-term survival against long-term planning. My hunch is they’ll opt for a mix: an established head to steady the ship, plus a budding talent like Vanat to fire the future.
