Good Morning. It's Tuesday 18th November, and here are the latest headlines from Elland Road
Piroe sale could fund Parrott signing
Leeds United have reportedly set their sights on AZ Alkmaar striker Troy Parrott, whose recent international heroics have further enhanced his burgeoning reputation. The 23-year-old centre-forward stole headlines over the weekend after netting a stunning hat-trick for the Republic of Ireland in their 3-2 shock victory against Hungary, a performance that has inevitably caught the attention of clubs across Europe. With Leeds struggling in front of goal this season, having found the net only ten times, the second-lowest tally in the Premier League behind Wolves, the need for a proven finisher has become increasingly urgent.
Parrott, well-regarded for his sharp movement in and around the box and his natural goal-scoring instinct, has begun to deliver on early career promise following several loan spells. His consistent form in the Eredivisie with Excelsior and AZ Alkmaar has not only boosted his market value but also cemented his status as one of the league’s most dangerous forwards. However, securing his services will not come cheap. Reports suggest a transfer fee in the region of £25 million, a figure that would require Leeds to generate significant funds through player sales.
One potential outgoing is Joel Piroe, who, despite topping the Championship scoring charts last season, has struggled for opportunities in the current campaign. The Dutchman is believed to be considered surplus to requirements, and his departure could fetch around £15 million, helping bridge the gap towards Parrott’s asking price. Yet this raises its own dilemma: should Leeds risk selling a proven Championship striker when relegation remains a threat? If the club drops back to the second tier, retaining Piroe could prove instrumental in a promotion push.
Championship clubs eye Gray loan move
Harry Gray is attracting increasing attention from across the Championship, with several clubs reportedly readying January loan bids for the prolific 17yo. Over the weekend, reliable journalist Alan Nixon revealed that Derby County, Swansea City, Charlton Athletic, and Hull City are among the sides keen to secure his services. Gray has been in electric form for Leeds’ U21s, notching 10 goals this season, and his performances have sparked calls from supporters for manager Daniel Farke to hand him a first-team debut. However, despite his eye-catching displays, the teenager is yet to feature at senior level.
Leeds United’s track record with nurturing young talent has been mixed in recent years. While Gray’s older brother, Archie made a smooth transition into the first team, and was promptly sold the following summer for £40m, the club has also been criticised for failing to maximise the potential and value of other academy graduates. The departures of Leif Davis and Charlie Cresswell, for example, have been held up as cases where Leeds arguably missed out on both on-field contributions and significant transfer fees, with some estimates suggesting the club should have seen around £40m more in revenue.
Given Gray’s age, a January loan could be a crucial step in his career, but Leeds are mindful of ensuring any move is in his best interests. A switch to a club within travelling distance, such as Hull City, might prove most beneficial, allowing him to adapt to senior football without losing the support of familiar surroundings. Linking up with former Leeds players like Joffy, Lewie Coyle, Cody Drameh, and Darko Gyabi could also provide a valuable support network. Whether Leeds choose to integrate Harry into their first-team plans or sanction a temporary move, his rapid rise ensures he will remain one of the most closely watched young prospects in English football.
