Plymouth Argyle Line Up 23-Goal Striker As Lorent Tolaj Replacement

Plymouth Argyle have set their sights on Grimsby Town striker Jaze Kabia as they continue their search for Lorent Tolaj’s replacement.

The 24-year-old departed Home Park last month in a reported £4 million deal with Championship outfit Bristol City. New Robins boss Michael Skubala was keen to add the attacker to his ranks following an impressive debut campaign on the south coast, where he scored 18 goals in 33 League One appearances.

Head coach Tom Cleverley admitted that finding a suitable replacement was top of the agenda before the beginning of the new season, although finding the right man to replace those goals would be difficult. Speaking shortly after the transfer, the ex-England midfielder said:

“We will get the very best striker there is out there to replace those goals and the club are on board with that. We are working hard to make sure that happens as quick as possible because we want to click as soon as possible.”

Plymouth Identify Candidate But Face Battle

It has been reported that Plymouth have now set their sights on Grimsby’s Jaze Kabia, although they aren’t the only team in the hunt. According to journalist Matt Dean, league rivals Leyton Orient are also among the potential suitors.

Ironically, the O’s are also on the hunt for a new striker after losing talisman Dom Ballard to the same club, Bristol City. It is said that the Mariners have received bids for the 25-year-old, with both clubs named as those who are ‘the most keen’.

Kabia joined the Lincolnshire-based outfit last summer on a two-year deal from non-league club Truro City. He made the step up to League Two with ease, scoring 23 goals in all competitions.

He played a huge role in Grimsby’s seventh-placed finish, which saw them sneak into the play-offs. They exited at the semi final stage following an extra time defeat to beaten finalists Salford City.

Who Else Have Plymouth Been Linked With?

Naturally, Plymouth’s search for a new striker has seen them linked with a host of names. Cleverley admitted last week that he has a list of potential targets, which set the rumour mill alight.

Burnley’s Michael Mellon, who suffered injury problems during a loan spell with Oldham Athletic last season, is one name in the frame. However, Plymouth Live claim the former Manchester United youngster isn’t the priority.

A raid on rivals Exeter City has also been rumoured, with Jayden Wareham tipped to make the short switch across the A38. Despite the Grecians suffering relegation from League One, the 23-year-old managed to find the back of the net 19 times.

A move for Kabia does seem the most likely though. With Grimsby not commenting on the situation, it appears as if an exit from Blundell Park is on the cards.