Yorkshire giants Leeds United are reportedly keeping close tabs on former Krasnodar striker Erik Botheim this summer.
According to TEAMtalk, Premier League side Leeds United are interested in making a summer move for Krasnodar’s prolific Norwegian striker Erik Botheim, who is now available on a free transfer.
The 22-year-old joined the Russian side last January and has a contract with them until 2025. However, given the unfortunate turn of events brought about by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Botheim’s contract now stands cancelled, and the player is now available on a free transfer.
The Norwegian striker’s availability in the market makes for an interesting viewing given the potential he possesses. Leeds are fully aware of his talents and are eyeing a summer move.
Jesse Marsch’s side barely staved off relegation last season. And unless they strengthen themselves this summer, Leeds are once again looking at another battle to avoid the drop. A major reason for their struggles last season was the lack of goals.
The West Yorkshire outfit found the back of the net a mere 42 times last season, a tally that was better than just four other teams. Given that three of them were relegated, Leeds cannot afford to not find reinforcements in the area. Patrick Bamford’s injuries have not helped matters either, while Rodrigo Moreno has appeared woefully off the pace.
Brazilian winger Raphinha was Leeds’s inspiration in the attack last season and is subject to much interest from other clubs this summer. With a move potentially on the cards, Leeds will need to bring in a new lynchpin upfront.
In Botheim, they have an intriguing choice indeed. The 22-year-old is no Erling Haaland but has enough about him to suggest that he can be a leading goalscorer for a top-flight side. Good at holding up the ball and clinical in front of goal, he certainly ticks the boxes that Leeds are seeking.
The 22-year-old is also compared to Roberto Firmino. The Liverpool superstar has redefined the role of a false nine in recent years, and Leeds could do with a player of similar attributes. Firmino’s ability to link up play with those around him remains unmatched, and should Botheim even show a fragment of that ability, he will be a huge asset for Marsch.
Leeds have several positions to strengthen this summer and will need to utilise their funds wisely. Landing a promising player on a free transfer is not the worst move and could prove to be worth the risk. But if a move does not materialise, Leeds could land Arnaud Kalimuendo after submitting a bid to sign the young Frenchman.
