Leeds United have had an approach for Watford forward Andre Gray knocked back, according to The Athletic's Phil Hay. 

United are in desperate need for a striker following Eddie Nketiah's return to Arsenal and the 28-year-old is the latest name to be mentioned on United's radar.

Gray has only managed eight starts so far this term for the Hornets and should United make a move for him it will most likely be a loan deal until the end of the season.

Two weeks have already passed this January window and United must start to really press on with deals if they are to secure any high profile signings.

Here we take a look at three reasons United simply must pursue a deal for Gray...

Other deals appear to be faltering

It is obvious that United's number one target this window is Southampton forward Che Adams.

The 23-year-old has been attracting interest from the Whites since the start of the window but it appears the Saints are playing hard ball.

Phil Hay reported on Tuesday that United have set a deadline to Southampton to make a decision on the transfer, with manager Ralph Hasenhuttl apparently not keen on the move.

United need to avoid putting all their eggs in one basket in the hunt for a striker and should step up their chase for Gray.

A proven Championship goalscorer

Gray can boast 23 goals in 110 Premier League appearances but it is his record in the Championship which has probably caught the attention of Leeds.

The 28-year-old scored 41 goals in 88 games across spells with Brentford and Burnley and won the division with the latter back in 2016.

Patrick Bamford has scored 10 goals for the Whites so far this term but United fans are yearning for a prolific goalscorer to join them this month.

Gray's potential goals could be the difference between automatic promotion and the play-offs for the Whites.

They simply cannot afford not to strengthen 

Despite one win in seven, United are still in a great position in the Championship and six points clear of Brentford in third.

Although they hold a strong position in the table, the Whites cannot afford not to strengthen given the fact they fell at the final hurdle last term.

Kiko Casilla was the only first team arrival last January and United finished the campaign with a thin squad and ultimately dropped in form when it mattered.

Leeds fans will be forgiven for feeling anxious about this window and the longer they go without any signings this anxiety will only grow.

Although the Hornets have knocked backed United's initial enquiry, they must return with a clear bid to ensure they manage to tie up a January signing.

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