Who’s this £4.4m forward that Leeds failed to sign in January but are desperate to sign in the summer?

Scout Report

Leeds United are reportedly set to revive their interest in Carpi striker Jerry Mbakogu over the summer. The Championship outfit were monitoring his performances throughout last month but a deal did not materialise. That has not deterred them from wanting to pursue a £4.4m deal for him once the season is done and the striker could be on his way to Elland Road sooner than later.

Serie B side Carpi were able to fend off interest and hold on to their key player beyond the January window but they might not be so lucky in the summer. With that in mind, let’s take a closer look at Mbakogu’s profile.

History

Born in 1992 in Lagos, Nigeria, he moved to Italy at an early age. He initially joined the youth setup of Scorzè Peseggia. He started impressing at a young age and eventually moved on to Padova at the age of 14. He rapidly progressed through the ranks and spent quite some time with the club, during the course of which, he was sent out on a loan to Juve Stabia.

He did receive quite a lot of game time with them and became a key player for the club. However, in 2013, he was once again sent out on loan to Carpi. He smashed several goals for them and helped them make their highest ever league finish that season.

The following year, Carpi signed him permanently on a five-year deal and that was also the time he helped the club secure a historic top-flight promotion. Since then, he has been an instrumental figure for the Italian club.

Playing Style

Known to be quite a towering striker with a strong physical presence, Mbakogu is quite powerful and can dominate proceedings effectively to snatch control of the ball. He is extremely attack-oriented and is quick with the ball at his feet.

Although he is versatile in the sense that he can play on either wing, Mbakogu thrives in a central position. He is quite adept at making space for himself in the tiniest of areas to capitalise on and in addition to that, the 25-year-old also boasts of sublime finishing skills.

Mbakogu’s Future

An interest from Leeds will certainly seem enticing for the striker. It is no secret that the Whites are in dire need of attacking reinforcements and to that end, a dynamic star like Mbakogu could work wonders for them – especially with new manager Paul Heckingbottom at the helm of things. It might be a while before he settles in but there is no doubting Mbakogu’s potential, thus making it imperative for the club to explore the possibility of signing him.