Swansea City begin their ‘post-Piroe’ era on Saturday when they go to Preston without their star striker Joel Piroe.

The Dutchman – the club’s leading scorer for the past two seasons with over 20 Championship goals in both – was sold to Leeds United on Thursday evening for an undisclosed fee, variously reported as being between £10m to £15m.

In a statement, the Swans said: “Swansea City striker Joel Piroe has joined Leeds United for an undisclosed fee, subject to international clearance.

“The 24-year-old Dutchman leaves after two successful seasons in SA1, scoring at least 20 goals in each campaign.

“Overall, the former PSV Eindhoven player netted 46 goals in 96 appearances for the Swans, with his most recent strikes coming in the Carabao Cup victory over Northampton Town.

“Everyone at Swansea City thanks Joel for his efforts during his time at the club.”

Now, attention falls to finding a replacement with just six days on the  current transfer window remaining.

The Swans are being linked with Aston Villa striker Keinan Davis, who would cost them an expected £2m to £3m.

He managed three goals in 22 starts for Villa before a loan move to Watford last season where he hit seven in 27 appearances.

Piroe’s departure is a huge loss and will have left supporters feeling anxious as the former PSV striker has been their main source of goals for the past two seasons.

Swans head coach Michael Duff is seeking striking options to go alongside Jerry Yates, a £2.5m summer buy from Blackpool.

Duff insists he is pleased with his club’s start, even though they are yet to claim a first Championship victory after three attempts.

“The important thing from my point of view is to see signs of progress from the things we are doing on the training ground,” said Duff.

“We have talked about being harder to beat, we have talked about being better at set plays. With the ball we can be loads better, but it’s about finding that balance between possession and giving up chances.

“It’s about that balance between the two. It takes time to implement things, you cannot create anything without time.

“It is a results-based industry, but we have only lost one game all season, that is the weirdness of football. You just have to keep working, that’s what you need to do.”

While Piroe leaves, Cardiff City defender Perry NG has signed a new contract to remain at the club until 2026.

The 27-year-old said: “My family are happy here and so am I. I love the city and love the club. I’m buzzing to get it done.

“I think this club has good ambition, as you can see with the summer we’ve had. We just have to show it on the pitch now. I can’t wait for the future.

“The fans have been brilliant with me so far. We need to repay their support.”

The deal is a boost for Bluebirds boss Erol Bulut ahead of their home game against Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.

Like the Swans, Cardiff are still seeking their first Championship victory of the season.

Newport County enjoyed the best result among the four Welsh Football League clubs last weekend when they won 3-0 at Forest Green Rovers last week and will look to build on that at home to Sutton United on Saturday.

Newport manager Graham Coughlan said: “I am expecting a much different encounter this Saturday, probably a welcome to League Two encounter, probably a little bit of roll your sleeves up, put your tin helmets on and battle.”

Having fought back to earn a dramatic 5-5 draw against Swindon Town, Wrexham continue their League Two readjustment with a trip to Barrow.