Things are beginning to improve for Leeds United after Noah Okafor’s late strike secured a valuable 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur in their previous Premier League outing.
The result lifted Daniel Farke’s side to eighth place in the standings, strengthening their position as they look to establish themselves in the top flight.
Sunderland, meanwhile, have found it difficult to replicate the impressive performances that earned them a seventh-place finish last season. The Black Cats currently occupy 19th position, although their 1-0 triumph over Chelsea before the international break provided some much-needed encouragement.
Both clubs are experiencing their second campaigns back in the Premier League, meaning the threat of relegation remains a concern.
However, Leeds have made a more promising start, sitting six points above the relegation zone and just two points behind the top five.
Much of their progress has been built on defensive organization, with Farke’s team conceding only eight goals in the league so far, the third-best defensive record in the division.
Their attacking performances, however, have been less convincing.
Leeds have scored just three goals across their last six matches, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin has managed only one goal during that period.
Despite Okafor’s decisive contribution against Tottenham, Farke could look to strengthen his attacking options when the transfer window opens, with an impressive Croatian forward reportedly attracting his attention.
Leeds United Enter Race for Dion Beljo
According to TEAMtalk, Leeds United have joined the growing list of clubs interested in signing Dinamo Zagreb striker Dion Beljo.
The Yorkshire club reportedly monitored the 24-year-old during Dinamo Zagreb’s recent 2-0 Europa League victory over Sunderland at the Stadium of Light.
However, Leeds are not alone in their pursuit, as Sunderland are also believed to be interested in bringing the Croatian international to the Premier League.
Several other English top-flight clubs are reportedly keeping tabs on his situation, potentially setting up a competitive transfer battle.
Beljo has been attracting considerable attention following his outstanding performances for the Croatian outfit.
The striker, reportedly valued at approximately £21 million, scored against Sunderland and has produced impressive numbers this season, recording 19 goals and nine assists in 20 appearances across competitions.
The four-cap Croatia international has also earned recognition for his physical qualities, technical ability, and effectiveness in leading the attack.
Rapid Vienna sporting director Markus Katzer previously praised his qualities, highlighting his mobility despite his physical stature, technical skills, and ability to hold up the ball.
Katzer also emphasized that the most important responsibility of a center-forward is finding the back of the net, something Beljo has demonstrated consistently this season.
His impressive form could make him an attractive addition for Leeds, particularly as they look to improve their attacking productivity.
Calvert-Lewin Could Face Competition at Leeds
Beljo’s potential arrival at Elland Road could provide serious competition for Calvert-Lewin, who has struggled to deliver consistent goalscoring performances in recent matches.
Although the former Everton striker has shown his ability in front of goal throughout his career, Leeds may need another reliable option to improve their attacking threat.
Bringing in a forward with Beljo’s current scoring record could give Farke greater tactical flexibility and provide additional firepower as the campaign progresses.
Sunderland Also Need More Firepower
Sunderland’s interest in Beljo is equally understandable, considering their difficulties in the final third this season.
Brian Brobbey has shown flashes of quality, including his hat-trick against Manchester City, but that remains his only goalscoring contribution this season.
The Black Cats could therefore benefit from adding another dependable striker to their attacking department as they attempt to move away from the relegation zone.
With Leeds also entering the race, Sunderland could face increased competition for Beljo’s signature.
Whether either club can secure the Croatian’s services remains uncertain, but his remarkable performances for Dinamo Zagreb have made him one of the forwards attracting attention ahead of the next transfer window.
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