Better than Calvert-Lewin: Leeds make approach to sign big-money striker
Upon promotion back to the Premier League ahead of the 2025/26 campaign, it was vital that the Leeds United board handed Daniel Farke the funds needed to make the changes he craved at Elland Road.
The gap between the two divisions has widened significantly in recent seasons, as seen with each of the last six promoted teams, who all suffered an immediate return to the second tier.
Despite splashing over £100m on new additions during the summer window, many fans had feared that the side would struggle to provide the star quality needed in the final third.
However, after the first 16 league outings of the new campaign, Farke’s men have already found the back of the net on 20 occasions, with six teams in the division currently registering fewer.
Such a record is evidence that the side can produce the goods in front of goal, but that’s not to mention that numerous players haven’t struggled over the last couple of months.
Leeds prepare move for big-money striker
Joel Piroe endured a year to remember during the promotion-winning campaign, as seen by his tally of 19 goals – the highest of any player in the Championship.
However, the Dutchman has featured in eight matches so far this campaign, but has currently been unable to find the back of the net for Farke’s side.
The same could be said for Dan James, a player who ended the 2024/25 campaign with a remarkable tally of 21 combined goals and assists.
Like Piroe, he’s currently been unable to provide a single goal or assist in 2025/26, which has led to rumours over a move for new attacking options in January.
Over recent days, a report in Italy has stated that Leeds chiefs, the 49ers, have already made an approach to Manchester United over a potential deal to land Joshua Zirkzee this window.
The report states that the Whites are just one of a number of top-flight clubs who are interested in a possible move for the Dutchman during the upcoming market. He once cost around £36m but his future at Old Trafford looks over.
The 24-year-old could be open to a move away from Old Trafford in the coming months, after starting just three times this campaign.
Why Zirkzee would be an upgrade on Calvert-Lewin for Leeds
As part of the summer recruitment drive, Leeds landed the signature of Dominic Calvert-Lewin, after the Englishman was released by Everton at the end of his contract.
The 28-year-old spent nine years at Goodison Park before his departure at the end of June, but he’s been in tremendous form in the Premier League during the last few weeks.
He’s already made 15 appearances for the Whites in England’s top-flight, scoring on five occasions, with four coming in each of his last four appearances for Farke’s side.
Calvert-Lewin has arguably cemented himself as the club’s most important player at present, an impressive feat after making the move to Elland Road on a free transfer.
However, that could be about to change after the upcoming January window, especially with a move on the horizon for United star Zirkzee in the weeks ahead.
Whilst the Dutch star has been limited to mostly substitute appearances, he’s still managed to produce some respectable numbers, many of which are better than the current number nine.
Zirkzee has been labelled “one of the most interesting young strikers” by Mateo Moretti in recent times, with his all-round stats highlighting such a statement.
He’s been outscored by Calvert-Lewin this season, but has posted more shots on target per 90, which highlights the threat he poses within the final third of the pitch.
The Dutch star has also completed more passes this campaign, with more of which per 90 being key passes – which could help provide Farke’s men an added creative option.
Games played
9
15
Goals & assists
1
5
Shots on target
1.2
1.1
Pass accuracy
73%
61%
Progressive passes
2.8
0.9
Key passes
1.8
0.7
Take-on success
50%
33%
Aerials won
45%
38%
Zirkzee has also won more of the aerial duels he’s contested in 2025/26, subsequently showcasing his all-round nature, which no doubt makes him a bigger talent than the current Leeds ace.
However, the Man Utd star does love to drop off the centre-back and operate in deeper roles, which could arguably make him the perfect partner alongside the Whites’ talisman.
The prospect of the pair lining up alongside one another at Elland Road is one to get excited about, with such a duo potentially having the quality to save the club from relegation.
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