Leeds United transfer rumours as Whites star discusses January exit, midfielder linked
The latest transfer talk from Elland Road as Leeds United look to add to their squad during the January transfer window.
Leeds United star Joel Piroe has admitted he is ‘not really keen’ on making a move away from Elland Road during the January transfer window despite struggling to find game time during the first half of the season.
The former Swansea City forward played a key role in the Whites’ successful push for the Championship title last season as he netted 19 goals and provided seven assists in 48 appearances in all competitions. However, the arrival of the likes of Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha has limited Piroe’s involvement as he has made just two starts in the Premier League.
They came in the opening night win against Everton and a 5-0 loss at title favourites Arsenal and the forward also started in the Carabao Cup second round defeat against Championship club Sheffield Wednesday. Since the opening week of the season, Piroe has made eight substitute appearances and has remained on the bench in ten other fixtures including the heartbreaking midweek defeat at Newcastle United.
A number of Championship clubs are believed to be monitoring his situation as the January transfer window gets underway - but the Whites star has stressed he does not believe a move will come to pass over the next three weeks.
Piroe told Voetbal International: “Honestly, that’s not on the cards right now. You never know, what if an opportunity arises that you can’t say no to? But personally, I’m not really keen on making a move this winter. Especially because the season is still relatively short and there’s little time to adapt elsewhere. That would be very difficult, I think.
“If I have to make a transfer, I’d rather join during pre-season and get fully prepared for a new adventure. [laughing] After the World Cup, so to speak. But I’m not thinking about leaving right now. I still want and can be of value to Leeds and contribute to staying out of the relegation zone.”
Whites ‘set their sights’ on Newcastle United star
Leeds United are reportedly in the race to sign Newcastle United midfielder Joe Willock.
Football Insider have claimed the Whites have ‘set their sights’ on a move for the former Arsenal midfielder - but will face competition from a number of their Premier League rivals. With the likes of Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton blocking his path to regular first-team football, there have been suggestions Newcastle would be open to a January sale if they receive a suitable offer for Willock and some believe the 26-year-old would fit into the style imposed by Whites boss Daniel Farke.
Former Manchester United and Sunderland scout Mick Brown said: “Joe Willock is a good player, but he’s not playing regularly at Newcastle. It makes sense for him to move on, and there is interest from a few clubs. I think Leeds would be a good fit for him and the type of player he is. He’s busy, a willing runner, good on the ball. Leeds could always do with a player like that.
“They’ve turned things around lately but they’re still in a relegation battle, so if they can improve their squad in any way, it’s something they’ll be looking at. The manager wants reinforcements, and if Willock does become available, it’s something that might work for everybody involved.”
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