Leeds United could emerge as one of the Premier League clubs interested in signing Tottenham striker Will Lankshear if they are searching for a forward with qualities similar to Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
Lankshear’s loan stint with Oxford United came to an end following the conclusion of the Championship campaign last weekend. Although he could not prevent the club from suffering relegation to League One, the young striker still received praise for several standout displays over the course of the season.
A number of Premier League sides are reportedly monitoring his situation ahead of the summer transfer window, particularly if Tottenham Hotspur decide he is not part of their immediate first-team plans.
Leeds are expected to prioritise the signing of a striker this summer, and Lankshear’s profile suggests he could be a strong fit for their system.
Leeds could consider Lankshear as a Calvert-Lewin alternative
The 21-year-old netted 12 goals in 47 appearances in all competitions for Oxford and was rewarded with the club’s Young Player of the Year award after an impressive campaign.
Many now view him as a high-level Championship striker capable of thriving in a more competitive side than the Oxford team that battled relegation throughout the season.
Lankshear’s Championship numbers in 2025/26
- Appearances: 44 (34 starts)
- Goals: 11
- Assists: 2
- Shot accuracy: 38%
- Non-penalty xG per 90: 0.35
- Chances created per 90: 0.94
- Fouls won per 90: 1.72
- Penalties won: 2
Reports suggest multiple top-flight clubs are preparing to move for Lankshear if Tottenham allow him to leave. Spurs are unlikely to make a final decision on his future until their divisional status for next season is confirmed.
Leeds, however, have several reasons to pursue the striker. Earlier in his career, when he was preparing to leave Arsenal’s academy setup in 2021, Lankshear reportedly chose Sheffield United because of their history of developing powerful centre-forwards such as Calvert-Lewin.
The comparison between the two players is understandable. Both are physically strong strikers who excel aerially, hold the ball up effectively and pose a regular goal threat inside the penalty area.
Under Daniel Farke, Leeds have found success with a 3-5-2 system during the second half of the campaign, but the supporting options behind Calvert-Lewin have not consistently delivered.
Neither Lukas Nmecha nor Joel Piroe have managed to fully convince this season, while both offer different attributes to Calvert-Lewin. That lack of a like-for-like alternative has occasionally disrupted Leeds’ attacking balance.
Lankshear could therefore represent a smart addition at Elland Road, especially if Tottenham are open to negotiations during the summer window.
Other striker targets linked with Leeds
Leeds are expected to strengthen their attacking options this summer as they aim to add more goals after recording one of the Premier League’s highest draw totals this season.
Among the names linked with the club is Ayase Ueda, who has impressed for Feyenoord in the Netherlands.
Lois Openda, currently associated with Juventus, has also been mentioned as a possible target, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Piroe’s future after a difficult Premier League season.
Compared to those options, Lankshear would likely be a far more affordable signing, while still offering significant long-term potential if Leeds are given the opportunity to secure his signature from Tottenham.
