Leeds United will have to spend big if they’re to make a January move for Burnley striker Matej Vydra.

The Championship side are weighing up a move for the Clarets’ frontman, according to a recent report from The Mirror (22/11, page 74), as they look to get themselves over the line in the race for promotion.

Vydra moved to Turf Moor in the summer of 2018 but after failing to make a notable impact last term, he’s been restricted to just five appearances in all competitions this time around.

Interest from Elland Road is not something that will come as a surprise, given previous reports from Lancashire Live that the Whites were interested in landing his signature.

However after failing to complete a deal with Burnley, Marcelo Bielsa’s side opted to sign Eddie Nketiah on loan from Arsenal instead.

It remains to be seen what will happen with Eddie Nketiah as we move towards the January transfer window, but according to Lancashire Live writer Alex James, a move to Elland Road could be one that appeals to the player.

James said: “He (Matej Vydra) is keen to represent his country (Czech Republic) at a major tournament having not been selected for Euro 2012 or 2016.

“But for that to happen he will have to either force his way into the reckoning at Burnley – a scenario that seems unlikely – or seek a move away from Turf Moor in January. He has previously been linked with a move to Leeds United.

“The Clarets spent £11million on the frontman in 2018 and he is under contract until 2021 so the club are under no pressure to sell him, particularly given that they are unlikely to recoup their outlay.

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“It means a compromise must be reached to allow the striker to leave permanently while there would need to be firm interest in a player who has started just three Premier League games for the Clarets.

“A loan move might, on the face of it, make sense but it is understood that Vydra’s preferred option if he were to leave would be a permanent move.”

James added: “He certainly has the ability to be a threat at Premier League level but without a regular run it will be hard for him to adapt and bed in to the top flight.”

The verdict

Leeds United are looking strong in the Championship this season, but one big signing could be enough to push them over the line.

Matej Vydra is a player with a proven track record in the second tier, and while he would be expensive, you’re almost guaranteed goals by the Czech Republic international.

A big-money move in January could be risky for Marcelo Bielsa’s side, but if they could agree a loan move with an option to make the switch permanent if promoted to the top flight, it could be the perfect scenario for both clubs and the player himself.