NafisaLeeds United have no plans to pursue Manchester United striker Rasmus Hojlund in the summer, despite ongoing speculation. However, strengthening their attacking options remains a priority for Daniel Farke.
TEAMtalk has learned that the Whites are keen to bring in a new striker once the transfer window opens, though their targets will depend on which league they find themselves in next season.
Following a thrilling late victory over Sunderland on Monday, courtesy of two goals from Patrick Struijk, Leeds are in a strong position to secure automatic promotion from the Championship and return to the Premier League.
Should they achieve promotion, Farke’s side will have a larger budget and greater ambitions. Additionally, Patrick Bamford is likely to depart, freeing up a Premier League-level wage and making way for a new striker.
However, when it comes to Hojlund, his weekly wages of £85,000 remain well beyond what Leeds are willing to offer, and Manchester United would demand a transfer fee that Leeds simply cannot meet. Given that United are not looking to offload Hojlund so soon into his tenure, a move is highly unrealistic.
Furthermore, Hojlund is still a key part of Manchester United’s squad and regularly features in the starting lineup. There has been no indication that the club is open to selling him.
Even if United sign a new striker this summer, that doesn’t automatically mean Hojlund will be made available. So far, Leeds have not made any approach for him, nor has any other club.
Four Strikers on Leeds’ Shortlist
While Hojlund is not an option, Leeds remain focused on securing a new striker. During the January transfer window, Southampton’s Cameron Archer was their primary target, and they may revisit that interest in the summer.
At the time, Southampton were unwilling to part with Archer, but if they face relegation while Leeds move up to the Premier League, a transfer could become more viable. Archer’s versatility, as he can play both as a striker and a left-winger, makes him an appealing option for Leeds.
Sunderland’s in-form striker Wilson Isidor has also been identified as a potential target, while Norwich City forward Josh Sargent was considered in January. In addition, Leeds are monitoring Nice’s Evann Guessand, who has impressed in Ligue 1.
TEAMtalk sources indicate that Archer is eager to join Leeds, meaning the only major hurdle would be negotiating a fee with Southampton.
Even if Leeds secure Archer’s signature, they could still look to sign a more traditional number nine.
Archer remains a key player of interest for Leeds, and his situation will be one to watch closely as the summer transfer window approaches.
Nafisa
