Former Leeds United goalkeeper Paddy Kenny believes that the club will bring in a new centre-forward before the September 1 deadline, as per Football Insider.
The Lowdown: Gnonto terms agreed
Rumours regarding a move for FC Zurich forward Wilfried Gnonto, who Italy coach Roberto Mancini called ‘fast’, have been gathering pace over the last seven days.
One report over the weekend claimed that Leeds were ‘very close’ to a deal, and Football Insider revealed prior to the 3-0 win over Chelsea that personal terms have now been agreed with the 18-year-old.
The Latest: Kenny’s comments
Football Insider shared a story on Monday afternoon, once again citing the news on Gnonto.
They spoke to Kenny about the need for a new centre-forward at Elland Road with the former Whites goalkeeper admitting he was ‘surprised’ that one hasn’t been brought in yet, but he thinks one ‘will arrive soon’.
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The 44-year-old said:
“I am a bit surprised Leeds haven’t signed a striker yet.
“It has been the big thing they have needed for quite a while now. You just can’t rely on Bamford’s fitness which is such a shame.
“So they need a player in. Do they need someone younger? I’m not sure. Gelhardt is there and Rodrigo looks like he is playing more advanced but you wouldn’t call him an out-and-out striker.
“I’m certain a striker will arrive soon, the club need one and must be looking for one.”
The Verdict: Needed
Signs have been good for Leeds in the final third so far this season, with seven goals in three games. Rodrigo has scored four of those and is leading the Premier League goalscoring charts, stepping up to the mark with goals in all three matches thus far.
However, despite the Spaniard’s fine start to the campaign, signing a new striker could still be hugely beneficial for Jesse Marsch.
Patrick Bamford and Joe Gelhardt have already had injury scares this term, and with Rodrigo also used in a deeper role, a new centre-forward like Gnonto could prove to be a handy acquisition.