Leeds United is currently exploring the possibility of signing Southampton forward Cameron Archer ahead of the January transfer window’s closure. The 23-year-old Archer has been in and out of Southampton’s starting 11 this season, hitting 5 goals in 25 outings across all competitions. He has scored only twice in 10 starts in the Premier League. The Saints are rock-bottom and are 11 points shy of safety. This is the opposite of where Leeds are in the Championship, with contention for promotions if their performances continue.

Despite struggling in front of goal through the 2024/25 campaign, Cameron Archer has proven himself at Championship level. He was impressive on loan at Preston North End and then Middlesbrough. Indeed, he played a key role in the Boro team, who qualified for the playoffs in 2023.

The 23-year-old rejoined Villa after Sheffield United’s relegation from the Premier League last season triggered a buy-back clause but Unai Emery’s men decided to sell him again in a big-money deal.

However, Southampton is not inclined to allow Cameron Archer to leave, as they consider his contributions essential to their efforts in the Premier League, where they are currently positioned at the bottom of the table and facing relegation.

Leeds United will be closely monitoring Archer’s situation as they prepare to pounce on any change of heart by Southampton before the transfer deadline. Their interest in Archer underlines how determined Leeds are to bolster their squad at this crucial phase of the season, with promotion clearly in their sights.

United boss Daniel Farke has admitted he would like to bolster their attacking options before the market closes on Monday. The German currently has Joel Piroe, Mateo Joseph and Patrick Bamford to choose from in the central attacking role. Bamford is on the comeback trail from a hamstring problem.

You can check out all of Player45’s latest football news here.