According to Phil Hay at The Athletic, Leeds United are chasing promising Ligue 1 striker Bamba Dieng. This comes after the hunts for both Cody Gakpo and Hwang Hee-Chan failed in the past few days. Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano is also reporting the story.
Leeds United Chasing Promising Striker Bamba Dieng
Who Have Leeds United Tried Acquiring Already?
Before considering the Senegalese striker Dieng, Victor Orta flew to the Netherlands to try and coax Cody Gakpo out of PSV Eindhoven. After agreeing terms with the player, the club did not accept the transfer offer.
The Peacocks also made an offer for Hwang Hee-Chan at Wolverhampton Wanderers. The Midlands side rejected the approach as the financial structure was not suitable for their needs.
Why Leeds United Need a Striker
Thorp Arch is badly missing a centre-forward. In terms of current squad depth, Leeds United have the perenially injured Patrick Bamford, youngster Joe Gelhardt and Rodrigo, who plays more as a number 10. Having an out-and-out centre forward without existing fitness issues is a necessity at Elland Road, so Jesse Marsch always has a man in the middle ready to slot away the many chances his team create.
Leeds are closing in on Bamba Dieng deal after Gakpo deal collapsed. It’s permanent transfer, not a loan — he is now set to agree personal terms and join Leeds. 🚨⚪️ #DeadlineDay
Dan James could leave before the end of the window, also Fulham are keen on signing him. pic.twitter.com/waqNMKEl7P
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 1, 2022
What Could Dieng’s Role Be?
As a 22-year-old forward with just seven senior goals to his name thus far, Dieng is firmly a player for the future. However, the Marseille forward has plenty of potential to play for the first team too. In spite of his youth, Dieng was a part of the Senegal team that won the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, so he brings a clear quality that he will take to Qatar, and hopefully Elland Road.
Expect Dieng to start as a bench player for the Whites before transitioning to a more regular option for the club. Luis Sinisterra started his time at Leeds as a substitute before earning his first start, a move that Jesse Marsch could look to use on any late attacking signings.
