Jerry Mbakogu looks set to join Leeds for €3 million - according to Gazetta Mercato. It marks a continuation of their tried-and-failed scattershot transfer strategy.

Over last summer, the club took in around £22 million from transfer sales, largely from the sale of Chris Wood. The attempt to replace Wood resulted in seven forwards signed over the summer and winter transfer windows, for fees of up to £3,100,000.

Of these, only Lasogga, on loan from Hamburg and looking unlikely to return, and Samu Saiz had any sort of impact. The others had next to no impact. Even Lasogga and Saiz had seasons that showed an ability to keep Leeds where they are but no expectation of taking them further forward. It highlights the problem with the current transfer strategy. While it can be considered prudent to not rely too heavily on one player, Leeds need a player who can make a difference to elevate them.

Mbakogu is not that player. A return of 32 goals in 98 appearances in Serie B for Carpi is fine. It does a job. It does not suggest a player who can lift Leeds to the play-offs. If Leeds are serious about pushing for the play-offs, they need a forward who can have a serious impact. To get that, they need to set their sights higher than middle of the road signings and be prepared to invest heavily in someone who can do that job.