Chris Wood’s goalscoring exploits of last season live long in the memory of clubs in desperate need of extra fire-power for the season ahead, and if reports are true then the New Zealander looks set for a big money move before the close of the transfer window. What Are The Odds looks at who could be in for Wood via the odds at Sky Bet bookmaker.
Burnley are reportedly ready to break the bank to clinch the signing of Chris Wood from Leeds United, and The Times are stating that the Clarets will hope a bid of £15m will do the trick in brining the striker to Turf Moor, within the time left of the summer transfer window. Currently they are the wild favourites to bring him in, with odds of 6/4 (2.50) on-offer.
Inevitably for the Elland Road faithful this was bound to happen; when a striker bags 27 goals in a highly competitive Championship season, clubs are going to be interested and the mood was buoyant after the club’s opening two fixtures - scoring seven times. However, losing a proven striker and having drawn back-to-back games at home 0-0, goalscoring could suddenly become a hindrance for Leeds this season. Sky Bet are giving Leeds a 4/7 (1.57) chance of Wood staying - if he does it will likely be because he was priced out of a move.
Everyone else in the market at this point looks just to be making up the numbers, but the two most likely outside bets are Huddersfield Town at 14/1 (15.0) and West Brom at 18/1 (19.0).
The Terriers may not have enough in the kitty to make bids in excess of £15m, with Steve Mounie recently recruited and making a huge impression on his debut, scoring twice in Huddersfield’s 3-0 win at Crystal Palace.
The Baggies on the other hand are still aiming to bring in a number of players before the window closes, but there hasn’t been too much indication in recent reports that Chris Wood is heading to the Hawthorns any time soon.
Newcastle United could be the most interesting outsider in the market at 20/1 (21.0). The Magpies were ruthless in their recruitment of some of the better Championship players last season, but their return to the Premier League has been tainted with transfer frustration by boss Rafa Benitez. A big money move on a proven goalscorer like Chris Wood could be one that excites the fans - a lot might depend on how Burnley’s £15m bid progresses.
West Ham are further back at 25/1 (26.0), while Crystal Palace 25/1 (26.0) and Southampton 33/1 (34.0) make up the top flight contenders.
Probability of Chris Wood's next club
| Next Club | Chris Wood Transfer Odds | Probability | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Burnley | 6/4 | 40.00% | |
| Huddersfield Town | 14/1 | 6.67% | |
| West Brom | 18/1 | 5.26% | |
| Newcastle | 20/1 | 6.67% | |
| Stay at Leeds | 4/7 | 63.64% | |
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