Former Leeds United striker Noel Whelan has suggested that Leeds should make Brentford forward Ollie Watkins their top transfer target this summer.
Ahead of their return to the Premier League, Leeds are in dire need of attacking players in order to challenge Patrick Bamford’s goal scoring exploits.
Watkins scored 26 goals in 49 appearances last season and is widely regarded as one of the top prospects outside the Premier League.
Speaking to the Football Insider, Whelan revealed: “When you look at his age, his attributes and the season that he has had, anywhere in and around the £18 million region would be a good price.
“He is a really, really special player. He has been converted from a winger into a centre-forward and that is not easy to do.
“That is a difficult task because you need a different skill set but he can hold the ball, he has pace, strength and is clinical in front of goal.”
The Athletic recently confirmed that the 24-year-old’s contract with Brentford does indeed contain a buy-out clause that can be triggered for £18 million.
Given the hype surrounding Watkins, that figure could be an absolute steal though Leeds may need to fend off interest from Crystal Palace and Southampton.
Matty Longstaff Would Be Superb Signing
The Leeds United transfers news wagon keeps on rolling and former Newcastle United star Matty Longstaff is the latest player to be linked with a switch to Elland Road.
Reports from earlier this month suggested that the Yorkshire club were considering a move but nothing materialised at the time – however the wheels of motion are now in place.
Udinese, Leeds and Schalke are also interested in Matty Longstaff. #NUFC https://t.co/PePZgWAVeb
— The Chronicle (@ChronicleNUFC) August 14, 2020
According to The Chronicle, Newcastle are still hopeful of coming to an agreement with the 20-year-old midfielder though Longstaff is demanding a significant increase in wages.
Leeds, along with Serie A outfit Udinese, are interested in acquiring Longstaff this summer but the decision will ultimately be down to the midfielder.
Harry Wilson Would Be Great Fit At Elland Road
Former Premier League striker Darren Bent has suggested that Marcelo Bielsa should move for Harry Wilson ahead of the 2020/21 campaign.
Having spent last season on loan at AFC Bournemouth, the Liverpool star could be deemed surplus at Anfield if Leeds can match their £15 million price tag.
Bent knows what it takes to succeed in England’s top flight and stated that “Leeds could be the perfect landing spot” for the 23-year-old should he leave Liverpool this summer.
*Credit for the main photo belongs to Kirsty Wigglesworth / AP Photo*
