Leeds United are in the market for a centre-forward, and at the time of writing, Georginio Rutter appears to be their prime candidate in the January transfer window.
Rodrigo has hit 11 goals across all competitions for Leeds this term, but Patrick Bamford's injury issues and dramatic loss of form has meant that the goal-scoring responsibilities have rested firmly on the Spaniard's shoulders.
Bamford has gone over 13 months without a goal for the Whites, and is once again on the casualty list after suffering his latest blow in an injury-ridden 18 months.
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While there is little doubt that Rutter is a man of many qualities, there are a number of key factors, which suggest that he may not be the answer to Leeds' longing search for an out-and-out number nine, or at least not for now.
Firstly, Rutter has little experience leading the line as a sole striker. He has partnered either Andrej Kramaric, Mu'nas Dabbur or Ihlas Bebou in a 4-3-1-2 or 3-5-2 formation. Marsch has generally opted for a 4-2-3-1 formation with either Rodrigo, or Bamford leading the line this campaign.
His devastating pace and majestic dribbling ability are two attributes which have propelled Rutter onto the shop window. He thrives off taking players on and breaking into the penalty area, but his goal-scoring record to date suggests he may not be the talismanic figure that Leeds crave.
It must be pointed out that Rutter is just 20 years old, and his price tag, which is reportedly in the region €30-40 million, may be more a reflection of his potential, rather than his current form.
Rutter did finish last season as Hoffenheim's top goal scorer in the Bundesliga with a tally of eight goals in 33 games. But he has been less clinical in front of goal this term - scoring twice in all competitions, and averaging a goal every 579 minutes.
However, there are a number of theories which could see Rutter fit into Jesse Marsch's plans. Rodrigo could revert to his role as an attacking midfielder to provide support for Rutter, although that may threaten derailing Rodrigo's remarkable goal-scoring form.
Another theory is for Marsch to convert him into a winger, especially as Rutter boasts all the required attributes to flourish out wide. Leeds do have strong options in the wide positions with Wilfried Gnonto, Crysencio Summerville and Jack Harrison, while Luis Sinisterra is still set to back from injury, but it is still an option.
To expect Rutter to immediately fill the void up front would be naïve. His price tag, for a player that is the youngest Frenchman ever to score in the Bundesliga, seems reasonable, but he is very much a raw talent, rather than the finished article at this stage.
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