The first of many rumours circulating for the last few days has proven to be true after Swindon’s prolific goalscorer, Billy Paynter signed on a three-year deal for Leeds United.

Paynter joins Leeds United at Ken Bates’ favourite price – free. A lot of fans have been sceptical about the amount of free signings we’ve had under Kenneth’s leadership, and perhaps rightly so. Especially when you consider the turnover of the club and the amount of money made from the sale of our youngsters.

That said, Patrick Kisnorbo has proven that free doesn’t always mean second best and Billy Paynter could well follow suit. The 25-year-old bagged four goals against Leeds United last season so our fans are more than aware of his potential.

Billy finished the League One season for Swindon with 29 goals to his name, but despite his best efforts, Swindon fell at the final hurdle and missed promotion after a play-off final defeat to Millwall.

Simon Grayson revealed how happy he was with the signing on Leeds United’s official site;

“He works ever so hard, holds the ball up well and he has proved he knows where the back of the net is.

“When we knew he was available we were desperate to get him. We feel he will be a good acquisition for the club and I am delighted to have got him.”

It’s hard to say whether Billy Paynter will be able to fill the boots of Jermaine Beckford, but he’s certainly capable of goals. Personally, I feel we still have to move for more strength up front as we struggled desperately whenever Becks hit a rough patch last season. The fact of the matter remains that there isn’t enough goals in this team and that’s something Larry has to continue work on if we’re to make a serious promotion push next season.

Would you like to see Leeds sign Clint Hill?

View Results

Loading ... Loading ...