Leeds have been linked to a return move for former Whites man Lewis Cook following the relegation of Bournemouth last season.

According to the Daily Star, the midfielder was on Marcelo Bielsa's radar over the summer as the likes of Callum Wilson and Ryan Fraser all jumped ship to return to the Premier League. It would certainly make sense in terms of Cook knowing the club well, having spent his youth career and then some at Elland Road.

However, Bielsa is in need of goalscoring players and those who can conjure up exciting passages of play. On paper, the 23-year-old Cherries man simply doesn't fit the bill.

Leeds must avoid re-signing Lewis Cook

With talent like Patrick Bamford leading the line, the club must be kitted out with similar calibre players in order to keep the striker fed with chances. The manager has been scratching his head over his best midfield formation, which seemingly no longer includes fan favourite Jamie Shackleton.

The youngster was hauled off the pitch at half-time against Leicester and was dropped from the squad completely against Crystal Palace. Bielsa's no-nonsense approach when it comes to finding ways to win is admirable. But he may have no choice but to turn to the transfer market in January if things continue as they are.

Carlton Palmer spoke exclusively to Football FanCast about his ex-side's form and fears that unless the Whites pull some performances out of the bag, they'll be "out the Premier League by Christmas".

Indeed, as it stands Leeds have conceded the joint most amount of goals this season, with only West Bromwich Albion to match their 17 goals shipped. Whilst Bamford is way out in front with seven goals and is currently the fifth highest scorer in the league, the next highest Leeds scorers are Mateusz Klich and Helder Costa, both on two (via BBC Sport).

The chasm between Bielsa's target man and the rest of his attackers is staggering. The Whites need more creative players to assist Bamford and find the back of the net themselves. Spending £15million on Cook, who hasn't contributed to a goal in more than two years would be a foolish move for the Championship winners.

Especially after already making a profit on him by cashing in for £6million back in 2016. And on £35,000 per week, Cook would only eat into Leeds' wage budget during a troubling financial climate.

In other news, Marcelo Bielsa must change formation tactics or risk Premier League exit...