Linked with Leeds United this summer, Baghdad Bounedjah scores 10 goals in just two games

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As Leeds searched for a new striker this summer plenty of names came flying out of the transfer rumour mill. Must of them, were known to Leeds fans. Others, on the other hand, were lesser known. One such player was Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah.

He is currently plying his trade for Al Sadd in Qatar. The front-man has been in fine form in the Stars League, scoring 25 goals in 19 games last season.

Despite Leeds’ apparent interest, a move soon dissipated with news of his price-tag. Algerian source L’Expression were suggesting that the cash-rich Qatari side wanted €15 million (£13.25 million) for the attacker in order to let him go this summer.

Considering that was more than Leeds were ready to pay for Matej Vydra and eventual recruit Patrick Bamford, it is easy to see why a deal did not happen.

But, judging by his early form this season, Leeds might have wanted to stump up. Bounedjah has scored an incredible 10 goals in just two games.

After bagging a hat-trick in the opening game of the Stars League against Al Kharitiyath a week ago he scored an unbelievable seven times in a 10-1 win against Al Arabi on Sunday.

If you include the club’s final pre-season clash with NK Krka of Slovenia his record is even more outstanding. He scored five times in an 8-1 win. That makes 15 goals in his last three games.

Of course, the Qatari Stars League is not the highest of standards. But at any level, 10 goals in two games is enough to suggest an element of quality. Such form has attracted the interest of Turkish side Fenerbahce, according to Sabah.

Leeds were still right to balk at the asking price considering his lack of European experience. But it could prove to be a costly mistake if he does replicate his form in the Middle East on the continent.