Leeds United’s promotion campaign in the Championship has started to raise questions about its forward options, especially following recent comments from former striker Brian Deane. With a crucial period looming ahead, Deane’s insights have ignited discussions about the club’s decision-making over the winter transfer window.
As of March 23, 2025, Leeds United leads the Championship with an impressive tally of 76 goals this season—16 more than Norwich City, the second-best scoring team, and 23 more than Sheffield United, who sit below them in the standings. Despite these impressive figures, there’s still a noticeable undercurrent of concern regarding the performance of key forwards.
Deane, while speaking to talkSPORT, voiced concerns about the lack of a dominant centre-forward in the squad. “I always say that you need different ways of scoring goals, and if I look at Leeds, I think ‘why haven’t you just gone out there and tried to get a real class centre-forward?’” he said. He emphasized the need for a physical striker who can score from various positions on the pitch, a role that he feels is currently vacant in the squad. He spotlighted the struggles of Leeds forwards: Joel Piroe has failed to score in his last four matches, Mateo Joseph is without a goal in eight games, and Patrick Bamford has yet to find the back of the net all season due to injuries. Meanwhile, Manor Solomon has not scored in his last seven matches, leaving the club's attacking efficiency somewhat in question as they gear up for the final stretch of the season.
In recent weeks, the pressure has been palpable as Leeds prepares for the crucial final eight matches of the season. With such a vital point in the campaign on the horizon, questions about the decision not to strengthen the forward line in January are being scrutinized. Deane’s suggestions highlight a sentiment echoed by fans who are eager for more options upfront, especially now as they aim for automatic promotion.
In a recent game, however, there has been a glimmer of hope. On March 22, 2025, Leeds winger Manor Solomon played a key role in Israel's vital 2-1 win over Estonia, providing the assist that secured a much-needed victory for the national side in World Cup qualifying. Solomon, who has been linked with a permanent move to Leeds, had struggled to contribute at the club level prior to this match, having failed to net a goal or register an assist in his last six outings. His recent form put extra spotlight on whether he could elevate his consistency moving forward.
For Leeds, the prospect of Solomon's potential transfer looms large, particularly as they eye promotion to the Premier League. Reports suggest that if promoted, Leeds may strike a deal close to £15 million for the talented winger, who currently plays on loan from Tottenham Hotspur. However, there are concerns that interest from other clubs such as Everton and Southampton could complicate matters. Notably, Solomon’s Israel teammate Yarden Shua cheekily commented on social media urging him to return to Beitar Jerusalem, emphasizing the growing discussions surrounding his future.
Despite the mixed results of their forwards, it is clear that Leeds United is making strides toward achieving their season goals, but their attacking depth is increasingly becoming a focal point. With only a handful of matches left, Daniel Farke's team must navigate both the challenges of the league and the looming decision regarding the roster. As the transfer window approaches, fans are left wondering about potential changes that could strengthen the squad.
Upcoming fixtures will also play a significant role in Leeds’ quest for automatic promotion. Their next game is against Swansea City on March 29, 2025, after their match against Norway, where Solomon is expected to feature again. With a resurgence in form crucial for him and his teammates, fans will be watching closely to see if Leeds can secure a crucial top-two finish as the season winds down.
