Leeds United need a new striker this summer and continue to be linked with a number of centre-forwards with the transfer window in full swing. The latest name is Davie Selke.
A journeyman striker in German football, Selke has played for Werder Bremen, Hoffenheim, Hertha Berlin, Leipzig, Koln and currently Hamburg. But not for much longer, with his Hamburg contract set to expire.
That is despite the uncapped Germany striker leading Hamburg back to the top tier of German football. Hamburg have been promoted for the first time since relegation in 2018, scoring 22 goals in 33 games.
With Selke available on a free, clubs are interested. Leeds have made ‘direct contact’ to sign Selke with Fulham, West Ham and an ambitious Watford also keen. However, a return to Leipzig was deemed likely.
Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty ImagesLeeds receive massive boost in pursuit of striker Davie Selke
The initial report stated that if Leeds or any other club were to stand a chance of nabbing Selke in the summer window, then Leipzig would have to pull out of a race or choose not to hand Selke a contract.
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
Now, German newspaper BILD have rubbished any chance of Selke moving back to Leipzig. They report that Leipzig have no interest in re-signing the 30-year-old, despite producing the form of his life.
That comes as an enormous boost for Leeds in pursuit of Selke, as they look to convince the 6ft 5in star to leave Germany for the first time in his career and chance his arm in the Premier League next season.
Photo by Kristian Skeie – UEFA/UEFA via Getty ImagesSelke’s extraordinary career in numbers after Hamburg stint
Selke is a household name in German football. Having come through at Hoffenheim without playing a single senior game for them, he has gone on to play for five of Germany’s biggest clubs in his career.
2020-2021 (Loan)
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Uncapped by Germany but boasting 15 Germany U21 caps to his name, Selke could be ready for a new challenge and the Premier League will surely tempt. Leeds need strikers and Selke offers something new.
Indeed, Leeds have not really had a target man since Chris Wood left the club in 2017 and Selke would provide some physicality and aerial threat. Something which could be key in the fight for survival.