It’s unclear whether Leeds United will acquire a striker in January, but Daniel Farke could certainly benefit from the competition.
Leeds are at a crossroads in their season, and Farke may see the light by buying a new number nine this summer.
The Leeds manager did make a surprising decision when Farke mentioned Wilfried Gnonto as a striker who may be employed as an alternative given Gnonto’s talent.
Leeds have expressed interest in Emmanuel Latte Lath, who appears to be Farke’s top striker option.
Leeds fans may believe their pursuit of the Ivorian is finished, with Atlanta United near to signing Latte Lath, but all may not be as it appears.
Unexpected boost for Leeds United as Emmanuel Latte Lath situation revealed
A signature of someone like Latte Lath would be a real statement of intent from Leeds in terms of their pursuit for promotions back to the Premier League.
The 26-year-old proved that after he scored against Portsmouth on Saturday making it his 11th Championship goal of the season.
This will surely keep Leeds keen on the striker due to his form but also to a new revelation.
David Ornstein, reporting for The Athletic, has given the latest on Latte Lath’s situation.
Although talks continue for Latte Lath with Atlanta, an ‘agreement’ still hasn’t been reached for the Ivorian to make the jump to the MLS.
Clubs in Europe and the Premier League are also keeping an eye on the issue, with Atlanta potentially facing competition for his services.
Latte Lath’s future is uncertain as no contract has been reached, and the Whites are still in the race.
Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick discusses Leeds target Latte Lath.
It would be interesting to know what Michael Carrick thinks of the considerable interest in the striker he has coached for only two seasons.
That in itself demonstrates how excellent Latte Lath has been in the Championship, and his performance against Portsmouth on Saturday highlighted why Leeds is keen.
Boro manager Carrick was asked about the striker’s future at his post-match press conference on Saturday.
“Certainly [he’ll keep playing],” Carrick stated.
| Latte Lath’s statistics in Portsmouth 2-1 Middlesbrough | |
| Minutes played | 90 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Shot accuracy % | 4/4 (100%) |
| Passes into final third | 7 |
| Aerial duels won % | 7/12 (58%) |
“He’s an important member of the group, and he performed well today and scored, so I was really pleased with Manu today. There is no change in his circumstances.
It’s safe to say there are different views on the situation, and after Farke said he’s ‘aware’ of the striker position there’s every chance this saga goes right to the end of the window.
