Leeds transfer news: ‘Busy week’ expected after Bamford injury prompts updates on five strikers including Ollie Watkins

Leeds may finally sign strong competition for Patrick Bamford in the coming week after his latest injury prompted updates on five strikers on their radar.

Bamford, 28, suffered yet another injury setback on Saturday. The striker’s campaign was riddled with injuries last term and after just one and a third matches this season, he suffered an adductor issue.

Jesse Marsch eased fears over a lengthy lay-off, stating (via the Athletic): “Patrick, I think is not that bad, he felt a little tightness in his adductor.

“I challenged him to be honest with us on exactly where he stands with things and he felt like he wasn’t 100 per cent.

“So he didn’t want to push it and he made the right decision to come off. If it’s a cup final or something I think he keeps playing.”

Regardless, the Whites cannot afford to be so heavily reliant on a player who is beginning to struggle with injuries more and more.

As such, CBS Sports journalist, Ben Jacobs, has provided updates on five strikers on the club’s radar.

Ollie Watkins among five striker updates

Firstly, Jacobs stated Leeds ‘expect a busy week’ in the transfer market. Left-back Kai Wagner is being pursued and the latest on that front can be found here. However, of greater interest is their efforts to land a new marksman.

Jacobs tweeted Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins is being monitored by both Leeds and Crystal Palace.

Recent reports have suggested there is tension between the forward and Villa boss Steven Gerrard. It was even claimed the Liverpool legend is seeking a new upgrade on both Watkins and Danny Ings from Spain.

However, Villa sources have dismissed such a notion and Jacobs stressed the club’s stance is they do not want to sell.

Elsewhere, Southampton’s Che Adams continues to draw links and the reporter confirmed Leeds are keeping a close eye on his situation.

There is an apparent disconnect at St. Mary’s with manager Ralph Hasenhuttl publicly insisting his striker isn’t for sale. However, Jacobs noted Southampton are in fact open to offers. The Athletic previously claimed he’s valued around the £15m mark.

Scouts have Brereton Diaz concerns

Blackburn’s Ben Brereton Diaz has been linked in the past, though is no longer a primary target at Elland Road.

There are reportedly doubts among several Premier League scouts as to whether his game would translate well to the Premier League. His hold-up play and awareness both on and off the ball are concerns that have been raised.

Furthermore, Rennes’ Martin Terrier was in their sights earlier this year, though the forward is happy in France. What’s more, Rennes will command a hefty £35m for his signature, making that one unlikely.

The final target addressed was Cincinnati FC’s Brandon Vazquez.

The CBS journalist stated the 23-year-old is being ‘tracked’ by Leeds, though they’re unlikely to make their move this summer.

There is an obvious American connection with Jesse Marsch and the Whites boss is termed a ‘fan’. However, he is not deemed a viable option in the present just yet.