Leeds now very interested in signing £94,000-a-week Serie A striker this month

Leeds United are reportedly stepping up their interest in a Serie A forward as Daniel Farke looks to strengthen his squad during the January transfer window.

Few at Elland Road would have turned down the prospect of being 10 points clear of the relegation zone at the start of the campaign, yet that scenario could soon become reality.

A win over Manchester United this Sunday would cap a strong start to the year for the Whites, who arrive at the fixture unbeaten in six matches.

Despite the encouraging run, Farke has urged caution, stressing the importance of staying focused in the fight for survival. Speaking earlier this week, the German highlighted both the positives and the challenges still ahead.

“To have more than 20 points at this stage as a promoted side is a really good sign,” Farke said. “Even more pleasing are the performances, as we’ve been competitive in almost every game.

That’s encouraging, but we have to stay alert — we can’t stop collecting points because it won’t be enough to remain in this league.

“We’re confident and pleased with our progress, but there’s no room for complacency or losing our humility.”

Farke’s message also extends beyond the pitch, with Leeds’ owners needing to mirror that focus in the transfer market. While results have been positive, reinforcements could prove crucial in sustaining their momentum.

Leeds have already been linked with players such as Ruben Vargas, and attention has now turned to Roma striker Artem Dovbyk.

According to Tuttomercatoweb journalist Niccolo Ceccarini, via Sport Witness, Leeds are showing strong interest in the 28-year-old, who appears increasingly likely to leave the Italian capital this month.

The Premier League is believed to be Dovbyk’s preferred destination, although Leeds are not alone in the race. Sunderland are also monitoring the situation, setting up a potential battle between the two newly promoted sides.

Any deal would require significant financial commitment, with Dovbyk reportedly earning around £94,000 per week — a figure that would make him Leeds’ second-highest-paid player behind Dominic Calvert-Lewin.

While the striker has struggled for consistent minutes at Roma this season, his underlying numbers suggest he could still deliver goals at Premier League level.

Dovbyk has scored twice in the league from limited appearances, matching his expected goals tally, and a partnership with Calvert-Lewin could give Leeds a potent attacking threat for the remainder of the campaign.