An update has emerged on Leeds United and their interest in Joel Piroe on deadline day of the summer transfer window.
What’s the talk?
Wales Online journalist Ian Mitchelmore has claimed that the Whites made a late enquiry to land the centre-forward.
He Tweeted: “Swansea remain determined to keep hold of Michael Obafemi and Joel Piroe. Leeds made an approach for Piroe but that’s it for now. #lufc Could yet be a loan signing in before tonight’s 11pm deadline too. #Swans #DeadlineDay.”
However, the reporter then added that the 23-year-old is likely to remain with the Championship side instead of moving elsewhere.
Blow for Victor Orta
This news comes as a blow for Victor Orta as Piroe could have been an exciting addition to the Leeds squad this season.
Is this a big blow for Leeds?
Yes
No
The 23-year-old striker, who has been capped by the Netherlands at various youth levels, enjoyed a phenomenal campaign in the Championship last term.
Jesse Marsch wants his team to press the opposition and the striker has been described as a “pressing forward“, which indicates that he could suit the style of play at Elland Road.
He also has the potential to offer quality in possession. The predator found the back of the net 22 times in 45 outings for Swansea, who failed to make the play-offs, and assisted six goals.
This shows that he has adapted well to life in English football and Leeds would not have to worry about any issues in terms of settling into the United Kingdom.
Journalist Josh Bunting dubbed him an “absolute gem” and Swansea boss Russell Martin once hailed him as “outstanding“, as he caught the eye in the second tier.
Piroe arrived in Wales after catching the eye at youth level for PSV in his home country. He scored 36 goals in 47 games for their under-19 side and was directly involved in 30 goals in 56 appearances for their U21s.
The Dutchman has racked up 88 career goals at club level to date and his sublime form for Swansea suggests that he could be ready to make the step up to the Premier League, as he has found scoring goals relatively easy without playing for one of the top teams in the Championship.
Therefore, missing out on him is a blow for Orta as he could have added goals to the squad. He also has the potential – at the age of 23 – to improve and progress as a player in the years to come, which means that he could have been a fantastic addition in the long-term as well as the short-term if he can thrive at a higher level.