Leeds United should be looking to sign a centre-forward alternative to Patrick Bamford instead of moving for Cody Gakpo, according to transfer expert Dean Jones.
The Lowdown: Gakpo linked with Leeds
The Whites could delve back into the transfer market in January as Jesse Marsch looks to ensure that his side have enough quality to remain in the Premier League.
Leeds have been linked with an audacious move for PSV Eindhoven star Gakpo, although there is still competition to potentially snap up the Dutchman in 2023.
It could be argued that Marsch is short in central attacking options, though, especially with Bamford becoming an increasingly injury-prone figure who's yet to score this season.
The Latest: Jones says Leeds are "lacking" up top
Speaking to GiveMeSport, Jones claimed signing a centre-forward as a plug-and-play alternative to the 29-year-old is more important for Leeds than bringing in wide attacker Gakpo.
He stated:
"I think they just need that out-and-out goalscorer. They need that Patrick Bamford alternative or replacement. They’re just lacking a goalscorer."
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The Verdict: Makes sense
While Gakpo would clearly be an outstanding signing for Leeds, it feels far more likely that he will end up at a club either playing in the Champions League or the Europa League, given his astonishing return of 13 goals and 17 assists already this season.
It makes sense for the Whites to instead focus on that central striker role instead, with Bamford arguably not quite as deadly as he was and Joe Gelhardt and Sam Greenwood still developing as first-team players.
It will be interesting to see if a centre-forward signing is made in January or if funds are held back until the summer - there would be a risk in doing the latter, should Marsch's side be in or around the relegation zone when the mid-season transfer window rolls around.