Should Leeds look forward instead?
Bournemouth’s Max Gradel in action with West Brom’s Craig Dawson
Leeds United have been linked with re-signing former star Max Gradel, with The Sun on Sunday (2/4) reporting they are monitoring his Bournemouth situation.
While tempting, and expensive, going back doesn’t always work out in football terms either, no matter how welcomely his signature would be received.
Here are three Ivory Coast teammates of Gradel’s who Leeds should consider signing instead, who could carve out their own paths for the Whites…
Roger Assale
Roger Assale
23-year-old winger Roger Assale could be the heir apparent to Gradel in the Ivory Coast squad.
With seven caps to his name, he is primed for a big move to Europe, recently moving on loan to Swiss side Young Boys.
He has had an immediate impact, netting four goals in six games, and Leeds could take a punt on a player who would cost a fraction of the £8 million fee Gradel is valued at.
Salomon Kalou
Salomon Kalou
Former Chelsea ace Salomon Kalou is a household name and Champions League winner, and could be a smart addition if Leeds are promoted.
Most intriguingly of all, Kalou will be a free agent this summer.
A move to the riches of the Chinese Super League perhaps beckon, but Leeds could attempt to offer him one last run in English football and see if he is engaged by the challenge.
Nicolas Pepe
Nicolas Pepe
Angers striker Nicolas Pepe is making a name for himself in France, playing regularly in Ligue 1 at just 21-years-old.
The forward has featured most often from the bench this season, scoring three times, and was linked with a move to Newcastle United in January.
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