Leeds United would transform their attack if they reignite their bid to sign West Ham striker Jordan Hugill this summer.
Paul Heckingbottom’s side have made no attempt to hide their desire to land at least one proven centre-forward and possibly even more.
They are crying out for a striker who knows how the find the back of the net on a regular basis – and newly available Hugill could be the perfect answer.
The Mirror claimed in its print edition on Tuesday January 30 (page 47) that Leeds tested his former club Preston’s resolve with an £8million bid in the winter window.
West Ham eventually won the race for his signature with a £10million deadline-day deal, but the Times now report the club are open to offers for Hugill after putting him up for sale.
The 25-year-old has made little impression at the Premier League after being given just three brief substitute appearances since his January arrival despite David Moyes frequently snubbing Andy Carroll and Javier Hernandez.
There are question marks over Hugill’s calibre at top-flight level. But his game is ideally suited to the Championship.
Hugill is a targetman who can lead the line, pull defenders out of position and create space for others.
He also has a decent scoring record, with 30 goals from 114 Preston matches and, due to turn 26 in June, is entering his peak years.
He would certainly be an upgrade on Leeds’ 2017-18 forward roster of Kemar Roofe, Pierre Michel Lasogga, Caleb Ekuban and Jay-Roy Grot.
Leeds’ stunning late Jauary bid, which would have been the most they have spent since signing Robbie Fowler from Liverpool for £11million in November 2001, failed.
But they now have the perfect platform to make a fresh swoop for a striker who is available and could do a fantastic job next season.
