Deal 80% Done: Leeds Set to Axe Joseph as “Nightmare” Chelsea Striker Nears Shock Move

Leeds United Eyeing “Nightmare” Chelsea Striker Marc Guiu as Mateo Joseph Faces Uncertain Future

Fresh from confirming the £12m capture of Sean Longstaff from Newcastle United, Leeds United are showing no signs of slowing down in the summer transfer window. The Elland Road outfit are reportedly closing in on Hoffenheim midfielder Anton Stach for around £17.4m, adding further depth to Daniel Farke’s Premier League squad rebuild.

Stach’s arrival would mark Leeds’ sixth signing of the window, but all signs point to further movement—particularly in attack. While the club have already bolstered defensive and midfield areas, Farke is now believed to be prioritising attacking reinforcements ahead of the new season.

Among the names linked is Rodrigo Muniz, whose 17-goal Premier League haul has already attracted significant attention. However, it’s another target that may surprise supporters—Chelsea’s teenage striker Marc Guiu.

According to football journalist Graeme Bailey, Leeds are considering a loan move for the highly rated 19-year-old, having previously shown interest. While Guiu’s Premier League experience is minimal, his potential ceiling could be significantly higher than some of the current options at Elland Road.

Guiu’s arrival could spell bad news for current Leeds striker Mateo Joseph. The 21-year-old Spaniard managed just 11 league starts last season, despite flashes of promise with three goals and three assists. However, with Farke eyeing reinforcements, Joseph’s opportunities in the top flight appear to be dwindling.

Guiu, in contrast, made a strong impression at Chelsea last season, netting six goals from just four starts—an impressive feat given his limited minutes. Despite featuring in only 16 games overall for the Blues, his efficiency in front of goal has not gone unnoticed.

Statistically, Guiu’s output already matches Joseph’s tally of six goals at Leeds—despite the latter having played 73 matches in total. All of Guiu’s goals came last season as Chelsea stormed to UEFA Conference League glory, underscoring his reputation as a clinical finisher. In comparison, Joseph’s return from the bench has raised doubts about whether he can consistently deliver at Premier League level.

Guiu also boasts two senior goals for Barcelona before his move to Stamford Bridge, adding to his growing reputation. His high-energy style of play earned him praise from football talent scout Jacek Kulig, who previously described him as a “nightmare for centre-backs” to deal with.

With Leeds also exploring a deal for £50m-rated Igor Paixão to strengthen the flanks, it’s becoming clear that attacking firepower is at the heart of the club’s recruitment drive. Should a loan deal for Guiu be agreed, the young Spaniard could serve as a dynamic impact option off the bench, supporting Joel Piroe and potentially overtaking Joseph in the pecking order.

As Farke reshapes his squad to meet the demands of Premier League football, exciting times lie ahead at Elland Road. But for some, like Joseph, it may mark the beginning of the end.