Leeds is apparently interested in signing a Premier League player who Guardiola regards as “so strong.”

This week, Leeds United have been linked with a move for West Ham United forward Michail Antonio.

According to Football Transfers, Antonio is desperate to leave the Hammers before the transfer window closes, with Leeds and Celtic among the clubs willing to offer him a way out.

Leeds needs to boost their attacking options before the end of the transfer season, as both Patrick Bamford and Georginio Rutter are now injured.

Antonio is the newest choice for Leeds, who appears to be seeking for a new challenge outside of London following eight years at West Ham.
Given West Ham’s recent loss of Gianluca Scamacca to Atalanta, it’s questionable whether they’d sanction the departure of another striker until a replacement is found.

Leeds are now interested in Antonio, whom Guardiola regards as “so strong.”

Antonio has established himself as a genuine problem to deal with in the Premier League since switching from a direct wide player to a central number nine.

In an interview with Sky Sports, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola reinforced the point during a 2-2 draw against West Ham in May 2022, stressing how difficult it is to cope with someone as’strong’ as him.

“This guy goes to the gym every day, he’s so strong.” Antonio is difficult to manage. They were fantastic.”

Antonio would undoubtedly provide a new dimension to Leeds‘ attacking options, but whether he is the right fit for the role remains to be seen.

Antonio, 33, has never been very prolific in his career, and his injury record certainly leaves something to be desired, something Leeds cannot afford.

However, he would undoubtedly be a headache for Championship defences if he were to come in.