Why Leeds United must splash more than £10m and complete a deal for this Championship goal machine

According to reports, Leeds United are interested in signing Derby County star Matej Vydra this summer. The player could cost in excess of £10m.

Vydra, 26, was Derby’s leading marksman in the 2017/18 campaign, scoring 22 goals in all competitions. He was also the top scorer in the Championship this past season and it comes as no surprise that interest is stemming from other clubs.

Leeds have finally appointed Marcelo Bielsa as their new manager, following Paul Heckingbottom’s sacking. The Whites failed to provide a significant challenge for promotion last season and owner Andrea Radrizzani must think bigger and better this time.

Bielsa, 62, is a highly experienced manager and is renowned for his breathtaking, attacking brand of football. His move to Elland Road will mark his first venture in English football.

Leeds need reinforcements to make a statement, particularly in the attacking department. Bielsa must sign a proven goalscorer to spearhead his club’s challenge of achieving promotion to the top-flight. And in that case, a move for Derby’s Vydra would be wonderful.

Chris Wood’s departure to Burnley in the summer of 2017 has left a major void in the Leeds team. But by signing Vydra, the Whites may finally be able to fill that hole as the Czech Republic international has proven to be an excellent player in the Championship.

The 26-year-old hit 22 goals in 42 games this past season for Derby. Suffice to say, Vydra has been a success in the second-tier competition with his goalscoring exploits. Although he is predominantly a striker, Vydra thrived in the No.10 role last season. In fact, he forged a brilliant partnership with David Nugent up front.

However, Leeds’ pursuit of Vydra will raise questions about players like Samu Saiz and Pablo Hernandez. In Saiz and Hernandez, Leeds have two of the best playmakers in Championship football.

Signing Vydra from Derby may bring about an imbalance in the Leeds’ team but the Czech’s acquisition would bolster their attacking options. With a trio of Saiz, Vydra and Hernandez up front, Leeds could establish a fearsome attacking unit.

That would truly help Bielsa get off to a flying start at Leeds. The experienced Argentine should be able to get the best out of his players in his preferred 3-3-1-3 setup.

A proven goalscorer like Vydra won’t come cheap and if Leeds are serious about challenging for promotion next season, they should be willing to pay whatever Derby demand for their hitman.