One of Leeds United’s newest transfer targets has been on their radar for the last year now.
It would appear Leeds‘ interest dates back to almost exactly when Daniel Farke was first appointed as manager at Elland Road, given he has been keen to have a big say in the club’s transfer business.
Farke has been working closely alongside the rest of Leeds’ recruitment team in Gretar Steinsson, Nick Hammond and Jordan Miles, all of whom have been brought in under the 49ers‘ ownership.
In fact, it is said some of them have even been out in Germany alongside the squad this week, often spotted holding conversations with Farke, presumably about transfers.
Leeds have brought in four new signings this summer and it is almost certain they will not be stopping there, with Farke still keen to strengthen a few positions.
Leeds have been tracking Dejan Ljubicic for 12 months
Central midfield would appear to be Leeds’ top priority right now having submitted a new offer for a player earlier this week.
The Whites have not made any new signings since the arrival of Jayden Bogle seven days ago, but work has not stopped behind-the-scenes.
Reports in Germany earlier this week confirmed Leeds had seen a £3.3 million offer for Dejan Ljubicic turned down by Koln, as the search for a brand new midfielder ramps up.
Ljubicic has less than 12 months remaining on his deal at Koln and has reportedly made it clear he will not be signing a new one. Leeds are expected to return with a fresh bid this weekend.
And speaking on the One Leeds Fan Channel, Athletic journalist Nancy Froston says he is a player Leeds have been tracking for the last year, and so is not surprised to see them move now given his contract situation.
She said: “I think he can play that more defensive role, he did fill in at times for Koln last season but there isn’t that pressing need for him to play that role for Leeds.
“He’s an Austria international, good height on him at 6ft2 and 26. It sounds like Leeds have been tracking him for a little while as well, possibly even for a year and they’ve gone in for him now. Looking at the contract situation, it’s a smart time to do it.”
Leeds could lodge new Ljubicic offer this weekend
Ljubicic has certainly left the door open for a potential transfer this summer and that is something Leeds are looking to pounce on.
As mentioned, it was suggested in Germany that Leeds would be making a second offer for the 26-year-old and those reports have been backed up in England.
It is said Leeds could lodge a new bid of between £4.2m-£5.1m by the end of this weekend, which could well be closer to Koln’s valuation.
With Leeds’ recruitment team currently out in Germany, that timescale would certainly make sense as they potentially look to wrap up a deal before returning to England.
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