Pundit Tam McManus has questioned why Leeds United are plotting a move for Chris Wood in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Wood move plotted

As per Football Insider, the Whites are plotting a move for their former striker Chris Wood in January and are weighing up a bid for him.

They are in the market for a new centre-forward who can lead the line and provide an alternative for Patrick Bamford and Rodrigo, with Wood thought to be a potential loan option.

However, despite slipping down the pecking order at Newcastle United, the Magpies may be unwilling to let him go unless they can bring in a replacement, with the New Zealand international believed to be on more than £100,000 per week.

The Latest: McManus baffled

Speaking to Football Insider, McManus has been left baffled by Leeds' reported pursuit of Wood, with the 41-year-old claiming that the striker will not come cheap after only signing for Newcastle last January, also stating that he is 'at the end of his career' at 31.

McManus said: “If you are going to spend the money on Wood, it will take a lot to get him out of Newcastle, I don’t get that.

“Newcastle paid a lot of money for him last January and they will want some sort of return on that, they won’t let him go for nothing.

“If you are going to spend that money then surely you want someone a bit more consistent? Maybe someone younger because Wood is at the end of his career.

“On one hand, I get it. But surely there are better ways to spend that money? He doesn’t fit the profile Leeds have been targeting recently.”

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The Verdict: Look elsewhere

As good as Wood was at Elland Road previously, where he managed 44 goals in 88 games in all competitions across three seasons, averaging a goal every other match, he is unfortunately past his best at 31.

More was expected of him at St James' Park after his £25m move from Burnley last January, but he has only managed four goals in 33 appearances so far at Newcastle.

Considering his age, and the high wages that he is earning on Tyneside, this could turn out to be a costly deal for Leeds if they go through with it, with success far from guaranteed.