Leeds’ striker pursuit is still ongoing.
Che Adams doesn’t seem to be on his way, and with the Whites missing out on their number one target it’s time to look elsewhere.
One man who has been previously been to a move this month is Matej Vydra (The Mirror 22/11. Page 74).
The interest in Vydra is there, but it seems as if Leeds’ previous dealings with the Czech forward are causing a bit of hesitancy as a move for him back in 2017 collapsed after they couldn’t agree personal terms.
Should Leeds allow that to stop them from looking into him again?
The Whites are clearly worried about another Daniel James situation after his deal collapsing left them short last year, but Vydra has previously shown enough quality at this level to show that he’s worth going for – winning the Golden Boot the last time he was in this division.
We asked our team of writers to give their verdicts on whether or not Leeds should go for the Burnley man.
Vijievan Jeevathayalan
“Putting history aside, if Matej Vydra comes in and helps fires Leeds to promotion, it would represent the perfect business arrangement.
“All would be forgiven and the Whites could then enjoy their return to the promised land of the Premier League. This isn’t the time to start worrying about past issues, but rather the opportunity to shake hands, move on, and deliver success together.
“Whilst it may not be a match made in heaven, Vydra can do all his talking on the pitch by replacing Patrick Bamford and leading Marcelo Bielsa’s side to glory.
“His record of 65 goals in 187 Championship games makes him a proven striker at this level, and getting that kind of experience in the January transfer window can be difficult. Victor Orta mustn’t think twice about ignoring previous events and snapping Vydra up.”
Lewis Blain
“While Leeds are desperately chasing cover for Patrick Bamford, a move for the man that once controversially rejected them would be a terrible decision. Matej Vydra hasn’t been in the division for two seasons now and in that time, he’s only managed 411 minutes in the Premier League whilst his overall record in the top-flight is nothing to shout home about after netting four goals in 46 outings.
“What is the target for United? Which league do they want to be in? The Premier League. The 27-year-old’s time in the spotlight has long gone, so Marcelo Bielsa should simply look elsewhere. It would be a big blunder from Victor Orta if he were to opt for Vydra, and based on the past relationship between the two parties, it should be enough to steer clear.”
Kealan Hughes
“Leeds are in desperate need of a new striker so they can’t afford to be too picky as to who they recruit, particularly as time is dwindling to get the man that ticks all of Marcelo Bielsa’s boxes.
“A deal for the likes of Che Adams or Dwight Gayle is becoming more elusive and signing an experienced Championship striker like Matej Vydra would be an effective back-up option
“While it’s an issue that he hasn’t played much this season he did score 21 goals the last time he played regularly in 2017/18, and as a bench player he’d be more than capable of making an impact when called upon.
“As a result, Leeds would be wise to forget about their pride and move back in for him once again, as it could be an inspired move.”
Charles Jones
“I think that Leeds can’t allow history to stop them from signing Vydra.
“The Burnley man hasn’t had the best of times at Turf Moor, but he’s a fantastic asset to have in the Championship as he won the Golden Boot last time he played in this division.
“You have to bear in mind that last time Leeds tried to sign Vydra he was a hot commodity coming off the back of an incredible season with Derby, but now there isn’t that hype around him after two poor seasons in Lancashire.
“Leeds can’t be stubborn on this one. They should swallow their pride and get a move on.”
Meanwhile, Alan Nixon has revealed what was discussed at a meeting between key figures at Leeds United on Wednesday.