3 Joe Gelhardt alternatives Stoke City should eye amid multi-club battle for Leeds United striker
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Stoke City were among the numerous clubs linked with a winter move for Leeds United’s Joe Gelhardt earlier this week.
Stoke City were able to solve their striker dilemma with a loan move for Tom Cannon in the summer.
The Leicester City loanee has been a big hit with the Potters too, but it seems Narcis Pelach is going to be in the market for another threat up top in January. As such, summer target Joe Gelhardt remains on the radar amid his lack of game time at Leeds United.
A loan move looks likely for Gelhardt, but with a host of Championship clubs and other teams keen, the recruitment team at the Bet365 Stadium might be wise to keep some other options in mind.
With that said, here are three Gelhardt alternatives Stoke City should have their eyes on.
Ali Al-Hamadi – Ipswich Town
Al-Hamadi’s situation at Ipswich Town may have changed a bit with news of George Hirst’s injury. However, it would not be out of the question that they sign a new striker in January and sanction a loan for their Iraqi star.
Al-Hamadi was a hit in the Championship over the second half of last season after jumping up from League Two and could be ideal cover and competition for Stoke City loan star Cannon.
The striker is a hard-working, physical presence at the top of the pitch and a constant handful. He’s often a game changer off the bench and could be a wise winter target.
Andreas Hountondji – Burnley
Hountondji might have found game time hard to come by since joining Burnley from SM Caen in the summer but there’s no reason why the 22-year-old still can’t be a big hit in the Championship.
The Benin international mainly plays as a striker but can also be deployed on the wings.
His return of 16 goals and seven assists for Ligue 2 side Rodez AF last season shows he has plenty to give, he just needs a chance to show it. Stoke City could offer him just that.
Max Moerstedt – TSG Hoffenheim
Last but not least is a bit more of a left-field option, but strikers are in high demand and few are available, so Stoke City might have to cast the net a bit wider if they’re to add one to their ranks this winter.
Striker Max Moerstedt doesn’t turn 19 until January and he only has nine senior appearances to his name but his stunning form in Germany’s youth leagues and in the national team setup shows he’s got goals in him.
Standing at 194cm, Moerstedt could benefit from extra game time while giving Pelach a real plan B up top.
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