Why Leeds should make a move for Jordan Hugill this summer
It doesn’t come as a surprise that West Ham United centre-forward Jordan Hugill is linked with a move away from the London Stadium. According to The Sun, West Ham may sanction a permanent sale if they can recoup the £9m they spent on him in the winter window. Hugill has endured a nightmarish spell since signing for the Hammers in January
In the first half of last season, Hugill registered 8 goals and an assist in the 26 Championship games he played for Preston North End. Signed by David Moyes, Hugill struggled at West Ham. He failing to make a single appearance and appeared just 3 times as a substitute. To put things into perspective, he could only register 22 minutes of Premier League football.
With a pass accuracy of 25%, Hugill won an average of 1.3 aerial duels per game. Meanwhile, Leeds United are having a dream summer after landing Marcelo Bielsa as manager. They must rebuild their squad and the process is already underway at Elland Road. Last season, Leeds United scored 47 Championship goals and conceded 53 goals.
German striker Pierre-Michel Lasogga scored 10 goals and provided 3 assists in 31 games. Lasogga’s tally was one less than midfielder Kemar Roofe’s 11 goals in 36 games. To challenge for a promotion to Premier League next season, Leeds are in dire need of firepower in the final third. The Middlesbrough-born attacker would certainly be an upgrade when compared to Lasogga.
Having scored 12 goals and provided two assists in the 2016/17 season, it is almost clear that Hugill is capable of making a difference. Although he could still break into the West Ham starting XI and prove himself, it must be noted that he might not receive adequate game time.
As far as Leeds are concerned, Hugill would add another dimension to their attack. Strong in aerial duels and a threat from indirect set-pieces, the player could establish himself as a powerful striker for the Whites.
Nevertheless, Bielsa must continue rebuilding the squad to transform Leeds United into contenders. With that in mind, the manager should consider signing Jordan Hugill – even if it is on a season-long loan deal.
Read More: Why this £11m-rated Championship goal machine could fire Leeds United to the Premier League
Hugill has a lot to offer and he is a proven centre-forward who has Championship experience. He might be a West Ham flop but don’t write him off just yet.
