Leeds United face battle for Dejan Ljubicic signing as club director speaks out
Dejan Ljubicic’s future doesn’t seem to be worrying FC Koln director Christian Keller, despite transfer interest from Leeds United.
Speaking to German publication Express (25 July), the German side’s managing director discussed Ljubicic, expecting the Austrian midfielder to stay with Koln despite their relegation from the Bundesliga.
The Whites have reportedly had a £3.4million bid rejected for the 26-year-old international [Nancy Froston, 25 July], who is out of contract in 12 months, with Keller’s comments implying that a much higher offer might be needed.
Keller said in his interview: “I assume that Dejo (Ljubicic) will stay at FC (Koln) and play a very good season for us.
“Last year I didn’t see him playing football with as much joy as we were used to – I’m pleased (he) is now feeling better and is much more relaxed. Dejo can be a real difference maker for us.”
Leeds United must stick or twist on Dejan Ljubicic transfer
Just as United have established they won’t be held to ransom on the transfer fees of in-demand stars like Crysencio Summerville and Wilfried Gnonto, the same policy must follow for their own incomings.
A £3.4m offer for a player who has just been relegated to Germany’s second tier, regardless of individual performance, is far from disrespectful, particularly given Koln could lose Ljubicic for free next summer.
While Keller’s comments don’t suggest this, his bullishness about the Austrian staying put is surprising – with his side given a choice over whether to collect a fee for Ljubicic or risk him leaving for nothing.
Given Leeds are reportedly far from the only club interested in Ljubicic this summer though [Nancy Froston, 26 July], the Whites must be wary about being dragged into a bidding war and potential fees rising above the £5m threshold.
The Peacocks made a handsome profit from Glen Kamara’s £6.8m move to Rennes [Beren Cross, 15 July], thus they can surely find a decent replacement for the midfielder without turning that into an officially booked loss.
In other Leeds news, Beren Cross shone a light on the defensive improvements Farke needs to make ahead of next season.
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