Leeds United Urged to Sign £4m Striker Dor Turgeman in January Transfer Window
Leeds United has been linked to a new striker ahead of the January transfer window, with former Elland Road star Carlton Palmer urging the club to sign £4m-rated Dor Turgeman. Despite manager Daniel Farke’s expectations of a quiet January window, Leeds have reportedly made an approach for the Israeli striker.
Background
Leeds United’s current striker options, Mateo Joseph, Joel Piroe and Patrick Bamford, have yet to fully establish themselves in Farke’s starting lineup. Piroe leads the team’s goalscoring charts with seven goals, but has been inconsistent. Joseph’s involvement is high, but his return of two goals in 18 games is underwhelming. Bamford’s recent increase in game time hints at a potential starting role.
Dor Turgeman Profile
Turgeman, 21, has impressed at Maccabi Tel Aviv, scoring 11 of his 21 career goals under manager Robbie Keane. His performances have caught the attention of Leeds United, who have made an approach for the Israeli striker. Turgeman’s comments in September suggested he is open to a move, stating he will consider opportunities when they arise.
Carlton Palmer’s Verdict
Former Leeds player Carlton Palmer believes signing Turgeman “makes absolute sense.” Palmer praised Turgeman’s composure and ability to split defenses, citing his Europa League experience as evidence of his potential. Palmer acknowledged concerns about the standard of Israel’s domestic league but emphasized the benefits of signing a young player.
Turgeman’s Statistics
Turgeman’s numbers compare favorably to Leeds United’s current strikers:
- Dor Turgeman (Maccabi Tel Aviv): 16 games (13 starts), 1,111 minutes, 9 goals, 4 assists, 85.5 minutes per goal/assist.
- Joel Piroe (Leeds): 19 games (11 starts), 978 minutes, 7 goals, 2 assists, 108.7 minutes per goal/assist.
- Mateo Joseph (Leeds): 18 games (9 starts), 873 minutes, 2 goals, 3 assists, 174.6 minutes per goal/assist.
- Patrick Bamford (Leeds): 8 games (1 start), 167 minutes, 0 goals, 0 assists.
Transfer Implications
Signing Turgeman for £4m would be a low-risk, high-reward move for Leeds United. With Joe Gelhardt potentially leaving permanently and Patrick Bamford’s future uncertain, Turgeman’s arrival would bolster the team’s attacking options. Farke’s willingness to explore alternative strikers suggests recognition of the need for reinforcement.
Conclusion
Leeds United’s interest in Dor Turgeman addresses concerns about their striking options. With Turgeman’s impressive performances, young age and affordable price tag, signing him makes sense. As Carlton Palmer emphasized, investing in youth can reap long-term rewards. This potential transfer would demonstrate Leeds United’s commitment to strengthening their squad ahead of the second half of the season.
What’s Next?
Leeds United’s pursuit of Turgeman will likely unfold in the coming weeks. With the January transfer window approaching, Farke’s priorities will become clearer. Will Leeds secure Turgeman’s signature, or explore alternative options? The next few weeks will be crucial in shaping the team’s attacking fortunes.