Leeds United have reportedly set their sights on Inter Milan’s out-of-favour striker Mehdi Taremi as they look to bolster their attacking options for the 2025/26 Premier League season. The 33-year-old Iranian international has emerged as a surprise target for the newly promoted side, with manager Daniel Farke aiming to add experience and goal-scoring prowess to his squad. Here’s a comprehensive look at Taremi’s career, his current situation, and what he could bring to Elland Road.
Who is Mehdi Taremi?
Mehdi Taremi, born on July 18, 1992, in Bushehr, Iran, is a seasoned striker known for his clinical finishing, intelligent movement, and versatility in attack. Standing at 6’2”, Taremi combines physicality with technical ability, making him a formidable presence in the box. With 93 caps and 50 goals for the Iranian national team, he is one of Asia’s most accomplished footballers. His journey from Iran’s domestic leagues to Europe’s top competitions showcases his determination and adaptability.
Porto get their equaliser! 🐲
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) February 11, 2022
Mehdi Taremi with a superb header from an outstanding Fábio Vieira assist 💫🙌
Estádio do Dragão is absolutely rocking! pic.twitter.com/p73Gvx5VSQ
Taremi’s career began in Iran with Shahin Bushehr and Iranjavan before he moved to Persepolis, one of the country’s biggest clubs, in 2014. There, he honed his goal-scoring instincts, netting 55 goals in 112 appearances. His performances earned him a move to Al-Gharafa in Qatar in 2018, but it was his transition to European football in 2019 that marked a turning point.
European Success: From Rio Ave to Porto
Taremi’s European breakthrough came with Portuguese side Rio Ave in the 2019/20 season, where he scored 21 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions. His prolific form attracted the attention of FC Porto, one of Portugal’s biggest clubs, who signed him in 2020. At Porto, Taremi truly established himself as a top-tier striker, scoring 80 goals and providing 49 assists in 147 matches over three seasons. His contributions helped Porto win the Primeira Liga, two Portuguese Cups, and a Portuguese League Cup.
Taremi’s time at Porto also showcased his ability to perform on the big stage. He scored crucial goals in the UEFA Champions League, including a stunning bicycle kick against Chelsea in 2021, which earned him widespread acclaim. His 260 career goals for club and country highlight his consistency as a marksman, though his age and recent struggles have raised questions about his suitability for Leeds’ ambitions.
WHAT. A. GOAL! 😱
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 13, 2021
Mehdi Taremi that is so so good!!! 🤤 pic.twitter.com/a72wY4p7pN
Inter Milan Stint: A Mixed Bag
In 2024, Taremi made a high-profile move to Inter Milan on a free transfer, but his time in Serie A has been less successful. Competing with established stars like Lautaro Martinez and Marcus Thuram, Taremi has struggled for regular minutes, often relegated to a substitute role. In the 2024/25 season, he scored three goals in 43 appearances, with only two starts in Serie A. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, such as an assist against Como and a goal from the penalty spot against Lecce, Taremi has been deemed surplus to requirements under Inter’s new manager, Cristian Chivu.
Leeds United’s Interest
Leeds United’s pursuit of Taremi comes at a critical juncture. With Patrick Bamford deemed surplus to requirements by Farke and Mateo Joseph reportedly handing in a transfer request, the Whites are in desperate need of a new striker. It is unknown if Joel Piroe’s goal-scoring record in the Championship can translate to the Premier League, prompting Farke to seek a proven option to keep Leeds competitive in the top flight.
