Reported Leeds United target Habib Diallo deserves huge praise for his breakthrough season at Metz, his Ligue 1 manager Vincent Hognon has told FranceBleu of a forward with an ‘impressive’ goal-scoring record.
With just nine games remaining in the Championship season, the Whites are on the verge of a long-awaited return to the big time.
And, whether you like him or loathe him, it is the goals of Patrick Bamford that have put Premier League promotion within Leeds’ grasp. Marcelo Bielsa’s number nine may divide opinion on the Elland Road terraces but, with 13 Championship strikes to his name this season, his role in a thrilling title charge should not be underestimated.
That does not mean, however, that Bamford can rest on his laurels. Reports in France suggest that Leeds have an £18 million, international striker in their sights with Diallo potentially on his way to West Yorkshire (Le Foot).
With 12 goals in 26 games, Diallo’s lethal finishing ensured Metz managed to stave off any lingering fears of relegation this season. No wonder his manager is keen to pay tribute to the 6ft 1ins talisman.
“Habib Diallo has reached a huge milestone. Scoring so many goals in so few games, and especially when you have come from Ligue 2… it’s impressive!” Hognon says.
“These are players who have been very important this season.”
Speaking to France Bleu recently, Metz president Bernard Serin admitted that he plans to cash in on Diallo when the transfer window opens, knowing full well that the striker’s price-tag has gone through the roof in recent months.
“He is 24-years-old, it is time for him to pursue his career elsewhere,” Serin says. “Our objective is to sell Habib Diallo.”
Bamford’s status as Leeds’ undisputed first-choice striker may be under threat.
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