Leeds United accelerate interest in Swansea forward Joel Piroe

Leeds United are trying to tie up a deal for Swansea City striker Joel Piroe, claims The Athletic.

The 24-year-old is also subject to substantial interest from other Championship clubs, including recently relegated duo Leicester City and Southampton.

Southampton’s interest in Piroe stems from head coach Russell Martin, who worked with the striker during his time in charge of The Swans and is eager for a reunion at Saint Mary’s Stadium.

However, Leeds are believed to be at the forefront of the race to land the highly coveted striker, who they have been targeting since last year’s summer transfer window.

The Yorkshire club value Piroe at around £10 million and will be hoping to strike a deal for the exciting forward, who has entered the final year of his contract at the Welsh club.

The Dutch striker has provided Swansea with more than their money’s worth after setting the club back around £1m when he joined from Eredivisie giants PSV Eindhoven in the summer of 2021.

The former Netherlands youth international registered 24 goals in 47 appearances across all competitions in his debut campaign with The Swans.

He followed it up by netting 20 times in 45 outings last term, firing Martin-led Swansea to within three points of the Championship play-off places.

It is no surprise The Swans have tried to extend his stay at the Swansea.com Stadium beyond this summer by offering a two-year extension.

However, the Dutchman has no intentions of penning a contract renewal, which could force Swansea to listen to offers for their highly-rated marksman this summer. 

Piroe is increasingly likely to leave Swansea before next week’s transfer deadline, and Leeds are one of several sides vying for his signature.

Daniel Farke is determined to bolster his striking options with Georginio Rutter the only available centre forward as Patrick Bamford and Mateo Joseph continue their recovery from injury.