Leeds United have been on an upward trajectory that has taken the Premier League by storm in recent weeks, with the Whites now pulling clear of any looming relegation threat.
Daniel Farke switched to a three-back formation when trailing to Manchester City at the end of November, with such a decision proving to be a masterstroke.
His side have only lost one game in their last 11 since such a change, with the result at the Etihad a couple of months ago now proving to be a blessing in disguise.
However, with the January window now rapidly coming to a close, the German is targeting added reinforcements to help strengthen his squad’s charge of survival.
Countless players have been linked during the winter window, but not all of their pursuits this month have resulted in a new signing arriving at Elland Road.
Leeds want late move for proven Premier League star
In the last couple of days, Leeds have stepped up their pursuit of improving the frontline, with Wolverhampton Wanderers talisman Jorgen Strand Larsen just one player on their radar.
It was reported last week that the Whites had made a £30m bid for the Norwegian international, but such an offer was dismissed out of hand by Rob Edwards’ side.
However, it appears as though Farke’s men are to miss out on his signature, with Crystal Palace storming into the race and having an offer totalling £50m accepted.
Strand Larsen isn’t the only player who has appeared on their shortlist this week, with winger Raheem Sterling another player currently being considered by the hierarchy.
According to TEAMtalk, the Whites are targeting a move for the Englishman, after it was confirmed in recent days that he had been released from his contract at Chelsea.
The report also states that the likes of Crystal Palace, Fulham and West Ham have already held talks with the player’s representatives over a possible transfer.
It further confirms that the 31-year-old would prefer to stay in London, but could be tempted with a move away if an 18-month contract is offered in his direction.
Why Sterling would be a bigger talent than Strand Larsen for Leeds
Missing out on Strand Larsen will be a bitter blow for Leeds, with the hierarchy evidently making a huge push to land a player who’s proven his quality in England’s top-flight.
He’s scored just one goal in the Premier League this campaign, but he did notch 14 for Wolves last season, which has no doubt ramped up the interest in his signature.
The £30m bid was a signal of intent from the board, but ultimately, Palace have blown such an offer out of the water, which has led to the club missing out on his signature.
There’s no denying that, given his recent struggles in front of goal, the agreement with the Eagles is a huge overpay, which may have seen Farke’s side dodge a potential bullet.
However, despite the unsuccessful attempt to secure the 25-year-old’s signature, their ambitions of landing attacking reinforcements remains – as seen with their move to land Sterling.
There’s no denying that the Englishman has struggled over recent years, which has no doubt led to his release from Chelsea during the current transfer window.
However, the 31-year-old is still an excellent option for any team in England’s top-flight, with his experience in such a division potentially vital in the Whites’ hunt for survival.
Sterling, who’s been labelled “incredible” by Gareth Southgate, has racked up a total of 396 appearances in such a league, subsequently scoring on 123 occasions.
He’s also laid on 75 assists during such outings, with the aforementioned figures highlighting his remarkable talent – something which could be crucial for Farke’s side.
Raheem Sterling – PL stats
Statistics
Tally
Games played
396
Goals scored
123
Assists
75
Minutes played
28,563
Minutes per goal
232
Yellow cards
45
Penalties scored
3
Stats via Transfermarkt
Whilst he’s not featured since May 2025, the attacker last starred in England’s top-flight during 2023/24, subsequently ending such a year with 12 goal contributions.
He managed to place 43% of his shots on target that season, whilst completing 2.1 successful dribbles per 90 – with the tally reaffirming his quality in attacking areas.
His unsuccessful loan spell at Arsenal last time around will certainly cast doubt into the minds of the supporters, but there’s little denying that the winger is an excellent option for Leeds.
Whilst the former Manchester City star would undoubtedly command a hefty chunk of wages, his availability on a free transfer represents a risk worth taking for the Whites.
The supporters will no doubt be wishing it was a deal for Strand Larsen that’s being completed, but a move for Sterling could be a blessing in disguise if he returns to his previous levels of performance.
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Leeds can forget Strand Larsen by signing striker who’s “similar to Haaland”
Leeds United could target another transfer option instead of Jorgen Strand Larsen this month.