Why Leeds United should revive interest in Southampton’s Che Adams
Back in January, The Express claimed that Leeds United were hopeful of signing Southampton forward Che Adams despite three of their offers for the youngster was rejected by the Saints but a deal didn’t materialize.
Adams, 23, came through the ranks of Coventry FC and Ilkeston’s youth ranks before featuring for Sheffield United and Birmingham. In his three seasons at St. Andrew’s stadium, he scored 38 goals in 123 games and was signed by Southampton last summer.
However, with Shane Long and Danny Ings ahead of him in the Saints ranks, the youngster has been featuring in a bit-part role. He has been used as a substitute in 14 of the 22 games he has played in.
Meanwhile, Marcelo Bielsa’s men have returned to winning ways after a slight dip in form. At the moment, they are atop the Championship table, leading West Brom by one point as they hope for automatic qualification amidst the league getting suspended.
Overall, the Whites have been brilliant throughout the campaign in every department. The attacking unit consisting of Patrick Bamford, Jack Harrison and Helder Costa has been excellent and they have scored 56 goals in 37 games so far.
At the same time, Leeds have conceded just 30 goals, which is the best defensive record in England’s second-tier this term. The likes of Ben White, Liam Cooper and Gaetano Berardi have been rock-solid at the back.
However, the manager should look to bring in reinforcements to the attacking unit if they are to challenge at a higher level. Patrick Bamford is the only striker at the moment. They lost Eddie Nketiah to Arsenal in January and signed Jean-Kevin Augustin but the Frenchman hasn’t lived up to the expectations.
Therefore, signing a young and energetic centre-forward would be a good choice by the club and Che Adams fits the bill perfectly.
The 23-year-old was in blistering form last season as he scored 22 goals and finished as the joint fourth-highest scorer in the second tier. He is one of the best young talents in the country and could be a crucial player for Leeds alongside Bamford.
Predominantly a centre-forward, Adams is capable of operating in the wide areas. He could be helpful for the club if the players who are on loan leave at the end of the season. The Englishman has the ability to develop into a top striker but needs regular game time, which he is deprived of at St. Mary’s stadium.
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Che Adams (L) in action against Wolves (Getty Images)
Verdict
At 23, Adams needs to be playing regularly to build his confidence before taking to game to a higher level. At the same time, the Whites have limited options up front. Hence, the former Birmingham star can provide them with depth in the squad.
Therefore, they should make another attempt for Adams and look to lure him to Elland Road in the summer.
