Leeds United are stepping up their search for another proven goalscorer before the summer transfer window closes, with fresh reports revealing that the Whites have already made an approach for one of Europe’s most productive forwards.
After an ambitious summer that has seen the arrivals of Harry Wilson, Tarik Muharemovic and record-breaking goalkeeper James Trafford, Daniel Farke is far from finished. The Leeds boss is determined to build a squad capable of avoiding any relegation battle and believes adding another striker is now one of the club’s biggest priorities.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin delivered exactly what Leeds hoped for during his first season at Elland Road, scoring 14 Premier League goals and playing a vital role in securing top-flight survival. However, his importance also exposed a major weakness within the squad.
Whenever Calvert-Lewin was unavailable or endured a difficult spell, Leeds lacked another natural goalscorer capable of consistently leading the attack. Farke is eager to change that before the new campaign begins.
According to reports from the Netherlands, Leeds have already submitted an offer for Feyenoord striker Ayase Ueda earlier in the transfer window as they explored potential attacking reinforcements.
Although no agreement was reached at the time, the Japanese international remains a player attracting significant interest across Europe, with Turkish giants Fenerbahce now entering the race with what has been described as a serious proposal.
That development could force Leeds into a quick decision if they still believe Ueda is the right player to strengthen their frontline.
The 27-year-old enjoyed an outstanding campaign for Feyenoord, finishing with an impressive 26 goals across all competitions while also enhancing his growing reputation with strong performances on the international stage during the World Cup.
His movement inside the penalty area, intelligent link-up play and clinical finishing have made him one of the Eredivisie’s most consistent attacking threats over the past season.
For Farke, Ueda appears to tick several important boxes.
Rather than simply providing cover for Calvert-Lewin, the Japanese striker possesses the quality to genuinely compete for a starting place. He is equally capable of playing alongside the former Everton forward in certain tactical systems, giving Leeds greater flexibility against different opponents.
Adding another reliable goalscorer would also reduce the enormous pressure currently resting on Calvert-Lewin’s shoulders. Injuries and fixture congestion are inevitable across a demanding Premier League campaign, and Leeds know they cannot afford to rely on one striker for an entire season.
Competition for places could ultimately improve both forwards while giving Farke the attacking depth required to cope with domestic cup competitions and the relentless pace of English football.
Leeds have explored alternative targets during the summer, including Burnley’s Zian Flemming, but Ueda’s goalscoring record makes him one of the standout names on the club’s shortlist.
Whether the Whites reignite negotiations may depend on how aggressively Fenerbahce pursue the deal over the coming days.
Strengthening the attack is only one part of Leeds’ remaining transfer plans.
The Yorkshire club continue searching for another experienced goalkeeper following Lucas Perri’s expected departure, with Newcastle United’s Nick Pope still among the names linked with a move to Elland Road.
Additional reinforcements in midfield and defence are also under consideration after injuries highlighted areas where greater squad depth is required ahead of the new season.
Despite already spending heavily this summer, Leeds have shown no intention of slowing down.
The arrivals of Trafford, Muharemovic and Wilson have significantly strengthened the squad, but the club’s recruitment team remain focused on giving Farke every possible tool needed to establish Leeds as a stable Premier League side.
Landing a proven scorer like Ueda would arguably represent the final piece of the attacking puzzle.
With 26 goals last season, World Cup experience and interest growing from clubs across Europe, the Feyenoord forward has all the qualities to become one of the most exciting additions of Leeds’ summer rebuild.
As the transfer deadline approaches, Leeds face a crucial decision. If they truly want Ueda leading the line at Elland Road, they may need to act quickly before rival clubs close the door on what could become one of the smartest striker signings of the Premier League summer window.
