Exclusive: Leicester City Turn to Leeds Forward Joël Piroe as Callum Wilson Chase Stalls

Leicester City are prepared to turn their attention to Leeds United forward Joël Piroe if their pursuit of Callum Wilson fails to materialise this January. 

The 26-year-old Dutchman has emerged as a high-priority alternative for the Foxes, who are desperate to add clinical finishing to their front line for the remainder of the Premier League campaign.

Piroe’s role at Elland Road has become increasingly uncertain since Leeds United’s return to the top flight. With the Yorkshire club under significant pressure to meet Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) requirements by the summer deadline, a substantial sale this month is becoming an increasingly logical solution for the board. 

Despite making 10 Premier League appearances this season, Piroe has struggled to secure a consistent starting spot, leading to internal discussions about his future.

Transfer Valuation and Financial Structure

Leeds signed Piroe from Swansea City in 2023 for a fee of around €14 million, securing him on a contract until 2027. 

While his current market valuation sits near the €15 million mark, sources suggest that a bid in the region of £13 million could be enough to tempt Leeds into a mid-season sale.

For Leicester , the move represents a dual-purpose strategy: acquiring immediate goal-scoring depth while securing an asset with high future resale value. Two potential deal structures are currently being explored: A loan with an obligation to buy triggered by appearance-based clauses, or a structured deal featuring a lower base fee with heavy performance-related add-ons.

Leeds are expected to look at freeing up funds before the window closes, with the club also understood to be preparing to reopen talks over a move for Greece international Giannis Konstantelias as they juggle their PSR position.

Competition Across England and Europe

Leicester are not alone in their admiration for the former PSV youth product. 

Middlesbrough, Southampton, Stoke City, and Birmingham City are all reportedly tracking his situation closely. 

Middlesbrough, in particular, view Piroe as the "missing piece" in their promotion push, though the player’s preference for Premier League football gives Leicester a significant advantage. 

Furthermore, PSV Eindhoven have briefly discussed Piroe as a temporary solution following an injury to Ricardo Pepi, though a move within English football remains the most likely outcome.

Tactical Profile and Suitability

Tactically, Piroe offers a different profile to Wilson. Known for his "second striker" capabilities and intelligent link-up play, his Championship output, where he proved to be one of the most clinical finishers in the division, suggests he has the raw tools to succeed in a more direct Leicester system. 

While questions remain regarding his long-term adaptation to the Premier League's physical intensity, his age and goal-scoring instincts tilt the risk-reward balance firmly in Leicester’s favour. As the window progresses, a fast, clean offer from the King Power Stadium could prove decisive in unlocking this transfer.