Leeds United are now intensifying their interest in signing a winger, who is also being targeted by Premier League rivals AFC Bournemouth and Everton.
Leeds lacking attacking threat with Okafor out injured
Noah Okafor was faring very well in the Premier League at the start of February, scoring against Nottingham Forest and Chelsea, but just as the Swiss winger was starting to put together a strong run of form, he suffered a hamstring injury.
The 25-year-old has been absent for the last four Premier League games, and Yorkshire Evening Post reporter Graham Smyth believes Daniel Farke‘s side have missed what he offers going forward.
Smyth said: “I think with Okafor being out, Leeds have lacked that pace and dynamism in the final third, you know, to really get past players and make something happen. Okafor brings you that. [Wilfried] Gnonto would bring you that.”
Although Smyth is an admirer of Gnonto, the Italian has found it difficult to break into the starting XI since the Whites were promoted to the Premier League, often being utilised as a late substitute or failing to make it off the bench.
Consequently, the Elland Road outfit have now set out to sign a new winger in the summer transfer window, but there could be fierce competition for his signature.
Race for “exciting” Bundesliga winger heating up
According to a report from Sports Boom, Leeds are now ramping up their pursuit of Hoffenheim’s Bazoumana Toure, with AFC Bournemouth and Everton also keen on the winger, who made a name for himself after impressing for the Ivory Coast at AFCON.
The 20-year-old is under contract with the Bundesliga side until 2029, meaning there is no pressing need to cash-in, but he has a relatively modest valuation of £20m – £25m.
With Leeds struggling in Okafor’s absence, failing to win any of their last five Premier League games, Farke may need to bring in additional depth in wide areas this summer, and the Hoffenheim star could be a solid signing.
Journalist Bence Bocsak is a big admirer of the youngster, describing him as “one of the most exciting young wingers in European football” and comparing him to Liverpool legend Sadio Mane.
The Ivorian is particularly skilled at creating chances, picking up ten assists in 22 Bundesliga outings this season, while also finding the net on two occasions.
At just £20m – £25m, Toure could be a bargain addition to Leeds’ squad, and the 49ers should definitely make a move if Farke’s side avoid relegation from the Premier League.