Leeds United proceed to be linked with Newcastle United striker Chris Wooden, regardless of Eddie Howe reportedly viewing him as an essential member of his squad…
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The Magpies supervisor dubbed the 31-year-old “hugely important” late final week, though the New Zealand marksman continues to be linked with a return to Elland Highway.
Ben Jacobs has given his verdict on the switch hearsay, as he instructed GIVEMESPORT: “I wouldn’t rule out Chris Wooden, former Leeds, in fact. He’s not getting a lot recreation time at Newcastle United for the time being.
“Newcastle are nonetheless taking a look at goalscorers and creative-minded choices. I don’t assume Leeds would need to signal Wooden on a everlasting deal, however there is likely to be a mortgage alternative there, in order that’s one to simply control.”
Given Leeds’ failed attempts to signal Matheus Cunha, who has agreed to join Wolves, it may make this potential deal much more essential for Jesse Marsch.
Higher than Cunha
Though it might appear a ridiculous declare to make, signing Wooden may really be a much better deal for the Whites than the one which Wolves secured for Cunha.
Fabrizio Romano reported an compulsory €50m (£44m) price for the 23-year-old, and with the New Zealand worldwide having solely been purchased by the Magpies for £25m, the Whites would absolutely get him for a cut-price price ought to they decide on a everlasting cope with Newcastle.
Moreover, Wooden already boasts much more Premier League expertise than the Brazilian, who has struggled this season for Atletico Madrid.
Ought to Leeds signal Chris Wooden?
Sure
No
Having yet to score to date in 17 appearances in 2022/23, he has solely managed two assists. Actually, he’s but to hit double figures for objectives in a single season while taking part in in one of many high 5 home leagues in Europe.
In the meantime, Wooden loved 4 consecutive seasons with Burnley wherein he scored ten or more objectives, which is made much more spectacular on condition that the Clarets had been routinely near the relegation zone within the Premier League.
The 6 foot 4 “Kiwi brute”, as journalist Tom Barclay labelled the 31-year-old, additionally ranks within the high 1% for aerial duels gained per 90 amongst strikers in Europe’s high 5 leagues in 2022.
These attributes may culminate in a much more efficient presence for English soccer, versus the large monetary danger that Cunha would have posed.
With the squad that Jesse Marsch boasts at Leeds, with tough wingers who can create for a correct quantity 9, maybe it was a blessing in disguise to overlook out on Cunha if it signifies that they may safe a cope with Newcastle for Wooden.