Joel Piroe for now, is looking like the leading striker at Leeds United, but that will certainly change.
Daniel Farke and the 49ers seem eager to strengthen their forward line before the Premier League starts.
Lukas Nmecha’s arrival is looking like a welcome addition, but fans can’t see him being the main man moving forward, and Leeds want another number nine.
With this considered, Piroe might be asking why he hasn’t been granted a starting place after 26 goal involvements last season.
Fans are even backing Piroe to succeed, but Leeds have already made the decision.
Photo by George Wood/Getty ImagesJoel Piroe will question ‘critical’ Leeds United decision
The striker position will be explored this summer despite the Dutchman’s overall success.
Farke will need someone he can rely upon in the final third, and Piroe, at times, wasn’t quite able to do that last season.
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This of course, doesn’t overshadow the important role he played in Leeds becoming champions, as winning the golden boot in the second tier should see the 25-year-old lauded.
However, his experience in the Premier League speaks volumes, and that’s clearly where Leeds feel as though they’re missing out compared to clubs who will be in and around them.
Piroe is determined to prove himself, but what Beren Cross of The Athletic is reporting doesn’t bode well.
It’s become clear that Leeds’ desired No. 9 is going to be just as ‘critical’ as a new goalkeeper coming in, and it’s been made obvious that these are the signings the club has to get right.
Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz is the top striker target currently, but Piroe will question why they need another number nine after his efforts.
⏳ Relaxed on goalkeeper arrival date
🤞 Hopeful progress on stopper – Perri among top targets
👀 Waiting on Fulham striker search
🇧🇷 Still in on Paixao despite Marseille intent
🇧🇪 Ramazani loan interest
📋 Bakwa and El Khannouss options explored #lufc https://t.co/jhIKgkn2k1— Beren Cross (@BerenCross) July 24, 2025
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Worrying Joel Piroe trait which might ruin his Premier League chances with Leeds
It seems harsh not to at least give the striker a chance, but this is also looking likely with Muniz’s interest heightening day by day.
The Brazilian has proven himself in the Premier League, so he already has the advantage on that front, which will frustrate Piroe.
Leeds’ decision to make a striker ‘critical’ seems quite harsh considering Piroe’s numbers last season, but there is one trait that makes this assumption fair.
At times last campaign, Piroe struggled physically, which is something needed in the top flight for strikers.
The worrying stat came against a recent Premier League side last season in Luton Town, as Piroe lost 16 of his 17 duels.
If Piroe is going to have any chance of getting the nod over a potential future striker like Muniz, he must improve this part of his game, as it will be crucial next season.