Leeds United have made an enquiry about the possibility of signing David McGoldrick, according to Football Insider.
The Whites want to secure McGoldrick on a loan deal, but Sheffield United won’t let the forward leave on a temporary basis.
Leeds are desperate to find competition and cover for Patrick Bamford. Southampton’s Che Adams is their top target, but a move for the striker is looking increasingly unlikely.
Dwight Gayle was an option until the Newcastle United man picked up a hamstring injury that will keep him out until March.
An enquiry has also been made about Jarrod Bowen. But like the Blades, Hull City are unwilling to let Bowen depart on loan.
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Finally, there is Watford attacker Andre Gray. The problem there is the Hornets would require a £2m loan fee and for Leeds to pay his £80,000-a-week wages in full.
Why Leeds signing McGoldrick should be considered
(Photo by Stephen Pond/Getty Images)
Chris Wilder will not want to let any of his first team players leave Bramall Lane during the January transfer window.
Wilder has spoken openly about the fringe players he does want to move on. Ben Heneghan and Richard Stearman have already left. Kean Bryan, Leon Clarke and Jake Wright are expected to follow them.
McGoldrick does not feature on that list and it’s easy to see why. The 32-year-old has been a key player for Wilder this season, playing in 19 of the Blades’ 23 league games to date.
McGoldrick has started 16 of those and has provided two assists. What the former Ipswich Town striker hasn’t done is score – although that doesn’t quite tell the whole story.
McGoldrick is so relied upon by Wilder because of his linkup ability between midfield and attack. No one else in the squad quite provides the same service.
Yet it cannot be ignored that McGoldrick is struggling when it comes to finding the back of the net. Not only that, but he enters the final year of his current contract this summer and turns 33 in November. He’s unlikely to be offered a new deal.
With young forwards with plenty of potential to develop further on the wish-list – such as Bowen and Brentford’s Ollie Watkins – perhaps now is a good time to move McGoldrick on and bring in younger talent.
A loan deal wouldn’t suit the Blades, but maybe a permanent offer should be considered.
