Leeds United would sanction the exit of striker Joel Piroe in January on the condition they can make a “difference making” forward signing.
The Dutchman was a key figure for the Whites last season, helping them seal promotion to the Premier League from the Championship, scoring 19 league goals and producing some big moments along the way.
Piroe has found it harder to play a pivotal role back in the top flight, however, with the jump up in quality of defences significant, and only three starts coming his way in all competitions.
The 28-year-old is also still searching for his first goal or assist of the 2025/26 campaign, highlighting the difficulties he has faced in terms of making an impact.
Daniel Farke is finding it difficult to give Piroe the playing time that he craves so much, which could potentially pave the way for an exit in the January window, whether that be on loan or permanently.
Leeds could look to seal "difference-making" signing
Writing for The Athletic, Beren Cross admitted that Piroe is unlikely to leave Leeds in January, but that they would be more open to an exit if they seal a “difference-making” replacement.
“Barring injuries to Calvert-Lewin and Lukas Nmecha, Piroe is going to have to make do with cameos from the bench for the foreseeable future
“I cannot see United sanctioning his exit unless they are substantially clear of the bottom three, or if his departure would facilitate the arrival of a difference-making alternative in attack. Calvert-Lewin and Nmecha’s injury records mean it’s hard to see how Piroe won’t be needed.”
Leeds are sure to be conflicted about Piroe’s future, considering he isn’t an important player currently, but does provide good squad depth in attacking, should injuries arise as the season goes on.
The former Netherlands Under-20 international is also a player who Farke has spoken so glowingly about in the past, too, even describing him as a “world-class” footballer.
“For me, he’s the best finisher I’ve ever worked with and there’s been some good finishers. If you want to have a player with the ball in front of his feet 20 yards out, then I would always go for Joel Piroe because he’s an unbelievable finisher and in these terms, really world class.”
Netherlands Under-21s
4
1
Netherlands Under-20s
13
8
Netherlands Under-18s
4
0
Netherlands Under-16s
2
1
Netherlands Under-15s
3
0
It feels as though Piroe is far more likely to still be a Leeds player after January than move on, but if the latter does happen, it will be intriguing to see who the Whites move for.
It would need to be an upgrade on their current attacker, in order to justify his exit, enhancing their hopes of remaining in the Premier League for another season.
How many players earn more money than Piroe at Leeds?