Leeds United sent scouts to watch Blackburn Rovers forward Ben Brereton Diaz in action during pre-season, according to Football Insider.
The Lowdown: Striker wanted
The Whites have made six signings this summer at a cost of £95m, with winger Luis Sinisterra becoming the latest to pen Elland Road terms.
However, Victor Orta and co aren’t finished there and want to bring in a senior striker ahead of Jesse Marsch’s first full season in charge.
The likes of Charles De Ketelaere and Arnaud Kalimuendo have been linked with Leeds in recent weeks, but it looks as if Brereton Diaz is also of interest once again with the new season fast approaching.
The Latest: Leeds scouting mission
Football Insider shared a story on Monday regarding Leeds and Brereton Diaz after being informed by sources.
They claimed that Yorkshire talent spotters were in attendance for Blackburn’s pre-season game with Accrington Stanley at the weekend, with the Whites holding a long-term interest in the Chile international.
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The Verdict: Smart move?
Brereton Diaz, who has been described as the ‘face of Pepsi’ in Chile due to massive marketing campaigns following his international success, and was also labelled an ‘extraordinary talent’ by his former Rovers boss Tony Mowbray, could be a shrewd signing as an alternative to De Ketelaere and Kalimuendo.
Still just 23 years of age, Brereton Diaz scored 22 goals in 37 Championship games last season, playing on the left and through the middle.
He would provide similar versatility as De Ketelaere, as he would be able to turn out as an inside forward or as a secondary striker to Patrick Bamford.
Brereton Diaz has just enjoyed his best season in front of goal and is also into the final 12 months of his contract at Ewood Park, so Leeds could look to take full advantage.