Goals have been far more consistent for Leeds United in recent weeks. Daniel Farke’s switch to a 3-5-2 has benefited the Whites, who have become much more defensively solid and a bigger threat going forward.
They are now much more direct, which can really hurt teams.
That has certainly helped Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has seen his goal tally skyrocket in the last few games, especially.
He’s now bagged nine times this season, having played 20 games, and is one of the real beneficiaries of this new look system, playing alongside another striker.
Well, the Whites seem to be in the market for a new number nine who could partner Calvert-Lewin up front.
Leeds targeting move for another striker
In the summer, former Everton star Calvert-Lewin was not the only attacker to move to Elland Road. German striker Lukas Nmecha also joined the club on a free transfer from Wolfsburg, and Noah Okafor signed from Italian giants AC Milan.
Well, it seems they could look to add to their striking options once more and bring in West Ham United striker Callum Wilson.
According to a report from SportsBoom, the Whites are ‘looking to sign’ the former England striker if he departs East London, and will ‘reignite’ the interest they showed in the summer.
However, this is not going to be an easy deal to do. Scottish giants Celtic are interested in the striker, as are Leicester City and Everton. Wilson has also been offered deals from Saudi Arabian sides.
This will likely be a free transfer, so Leeds might only have to match the £50k per week he earns at the London Stadium.
Why Wilson would be perfect for Calvert-Lewin
If Leeds were to bring the 33-year-old to West Yorkshire in the coming weeks, he’d add bags of Premier League experience to the squad.
That can be important for their ongoing relegation battle, with Farke potentially needing to lean on such an expected striker in tough moments.
This season, things have not been quite so easy for the ex-Bournemouth number nine.
Wilson has only managed five goals in 18 appearances for the Hammers, including a true poacher’s goal against Burnley at the London Stadium.
Overall, Wilson’s Premier League record is excellent. He’s found the back of the net 93 times in 256 appearances, with his best campaign coming in 2022/23 for Newcastle United, where he scored 18 goals.
Statman Dave described him as a “machine” in front of goal for good reason.
|
Wilson top 4 PL scoring seasons |
||
|---|---|---|
|
Season (Club) |
Games |
Goals |
|
22/23 (Newcastle) |
31 |
18 |
|
18/19 (Bournemouth) |
30 |
14 |
|
20/21 (Newcastle) |
26 |
12 |
|
23/24 (Newcastle) |
20 |
9 |
|
Stats from Transfermarkt |
||
If this deal were to get over the line, it would not only be a benefit to Leeds as a side but also to Calvert-Lewin individually.
Playing with someone as experienced as Wilson in a front two, who might be past his peak but still knows how to find the back of the net and link up play in the final third, can only be a positive.
Indeed, the England international has been in imperious form of late.
He’s bagged nine times this season in the top flight, but eight of those have come in the last nine games, and the most recent game also saw him grab an assist.
Former Everton manager Sean Dyche has publicly praised Calvert-Lewin for his impressive all-around game in the past.
He explained, “the hold-up play, the controlled aggression, the commitment to get hold of the ball and fight for it” all stand out.
Combine this with Wilson’s ability to finish a ball in the penalty box, and his sharp one-touch link-up play that has been on display in the past.
In all, you may have a duo that could be formidable in White.
Leeds are still not safe from relegation, so this potential signing of Wilson could be a huge boost as they look to consolidate their spot in the top flight.
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