Leeds United are lacking in the final third at the moment, having failed to bring a new signing or two to the club in the final days of the window. But a striker on the books is about to go on loan.
If there is one area of the squad that does require attention in the upcoming market, it is in the final third. Injuries to Noah Okafor, Willy Gnonto, and Dan James have reiterated that Leeds lack in attacking roles.
However, there are bright sparks coming through at Elland Road. Harry Gray is the one people are very excited about, with Gray already having a hand in nine goals for the U21s this season despite an injury.
Then, there is Rhys Chadwick, who finished last season with 26 goals and assists for the second string. Sam Chambers made his debut for Leeds last season. But another U21 talent is about to leave on loan.
Photo by Harriet Massey/Newcastle United via Getty ImagesLewis Pirie set for loan move to Leeds’ Yorkshire rivals
With the presence of Gray, Chadwick and Chambers in the 21s, it is difficult for others to break into Scott Gardner’s side. Lewis Pirie has found that out, managing to play in just four of the 10 U21 matches.
Indeed, the 18-year-old has only managed one start, lasting the entire 90 minutes of Leeds’ last PL2 game against West Brom, ending 2-2. But that is likely to be because Gray has been sidelined due to his hip.
Well, Scotland U17 international Pirie has taken matters into his own hands. According to journalist Pete O’Rourke, Pirie is set for a loan move to local side Guiseley, who play in the Northern Premier League.
He posted on X: “Leeds United U21s striker Lewis Pirie is being lined up for a loan move to Guiseley AFC. The Scotland youth international is set to go out on loan to gain valuable first-team experience.”
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Pirie joined Leeds from Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen a couple of years ago, with Leeds paying what has been reported as a six-figure fee to land the striker. He has since played 29 times for the U18 side.
Seven goals have come in that time, after Leeds beat Sheffield United, Crystal Palace and even Scottish champions Celtic to land Pirie’s signature. Clearly, there is a talent there, but he needs more game time.
Going on loan and experiencing senior football, even if it is two divisions below the National League, will do Pirie the world of good. It is unclear how long a loan is, but it is likely to be a short-term deal.