Leeds reignite movement for £50,000-a-week ‘machine’

Leeds United’s goals have been much more consistent in recent weeks. Daniel Farke’s change to a 3-5-2 has benefited Los Blancos, making them more solid defensively and making them an even bigger threat going forward.

Now that they are more direct, they can cause more damage to the team.

It’s certainly helped Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who has seen a surge in goals, especially in recent games.

He has scored nine times in 20 appearances this season and is one of the real beneficiaries of this new style system, playing alongside another striker.

Now, Los Blancos appear to be in the market for a new number nine who could partner Calvert-Lewin up front.

Leeds eyeing move to sign another striker

Former Everton star Calvert-Lewin was not the only attacker to join Elland Road in the summer. German striker Lukas Nmeka also joined the club on a free transfer from Wolfsburg, while Noah Okafor signed from Italian giants AC Milan.

Well, they appear to be looking to add another batting option, bringing in West Ham United striker Callum Wilson.

According to a report from SportsBoom, the Whites are “considering a contract” for the former England striker if he leaves East London, which would “rekindle” the interest they expressed in the summer.

However, this will not be easy. Scottish giants Celtic, Leicester City and Everton are also interested in the striker. Wilson has also received a contract offer from Saudi Arabia.

As this is likely to be a free transfer, Leeds may only need to match the £50,000-a-week wage he earns at the London Stadium.

Why Wilson is the perfect fit for Calvert-Lewin

If Leeds were to bring the 33-year-old to West Yorkshire in the coming weeks, he would add a bag of Premier League experience to the squad.

This could be important in the ongoing relegation battle, with Farke potentially needing to rely on such a promising striker in tough moments.

Things haven’t been that easy for the former Bournemouth number nine this season.

Wilson has scored just five goals in 18 appearances for the Hammers, including a veritable poacher’s goal against Burnley at the London Stadium.

Overall, Wilson’s performance in the Premier League has been impressive. He has found the back of the net 93 times in 256 appearances, his best ever being 18 goals for Newcastle United in 2022/23.

There’s a reason why Statsman Dave described him as a “machine” in front of goal.

If this deal gets over the line, it would not only benefit Leeds as a team, but Calvert-Lewin personally.

Playing in a front two with an experienced player like Wilson may be past his peak, but playing with a player who still knows how to find the back of the net and connect plays in the final third can only be positive.

In fact, the England international has been in great form lately.

He has scored nine times in the top flight this season, eight of which have come in the last nine games, and also provided an assist in the most recent match.

Former Everton manager Sean Dyche publicly praised Calvert-Lewin’s excellent all-round play in the past.

He explained that his “hold-up play, controlled aggression, grip-on-the-ball attitude” all stood out.

Combine this with Wilson’s ability to finish the ball inside the penalty box and the sharp, one-touch link-up play he has shown in the past.

All in all, White could have a formidable duo.

Leeds are still not in danger of being relegated, so potentially signing Wilson could be a huge boost for Leeds as they look to cement their place in the top flight.