Leeds United has decided to withdraw from the pursuit of a notable Bundesliga talent as the summer transfer window nears its end. The latest reports indicate that the club has dropped their interest in Dejan Ljubicic, a highly-regarded midfielder from FC Koln, who was once a prime target for Leeds this season.
Leeds’ transfer saga this summer has been anything but smooth. The club has faced significant player departures, including Crysencio Summerville, Archie Gray, and Georginio Rutter, who have left for West Ham, Tottenham, and Brighton respectively. Additionally, there are rumors that Wilfried Gnonto might also leave, compounding Leeds’ need to bolster their squad. Despite these challenges, the club has managed to bring in several new players, such as Largie Ramazani, Joe Rodon, and Jayden Bogle. Nonetheless, the team is still on the lookout for additional quality to enhance their chances in the Championship.
Recent speculation suggested that Leeds could be interested in Spurs’ attacking midfielder Manor Solomon. Solomon, who had a limited role in the Premier League last season, might benefit from a move to Leeds, where he could form a dynamic partnership with Ramazani. Meanwhile, the departure of Glen Kamara to Rennes has left a gap in Leeds’ midfield, highlighting the need for reinforcements. Lausanne-Sport’s Alvyn Sanches has been mentioned as a potential replacement for Kamara.
However, the pursuit of Dejan Ljubicic has encountered obstacles. According to reports from Bild and Sport Witness, Leeds had previously made a £3.3 million bid for the Austrian midfielder, which was rejected. Despite Ljubicic expressing a strong desire to join Leeds, the club has decided to step back from negotiations. FC Koln’s demand of £6.7 million and the complications in dealing with Ljubicic’s representatives have led Leeds to abandon their interest.
Ljubicic, who has earned nine caps for Austria and was praised by former Koln manager Timo Schultz for his significant contributions, now finds himself in Bundesliga 2 following Koln’s relegation. Although he shone in the Bundesliga during the 2022/23 season, scoring five goals and making notable defensive contributions, his potential move to Leeds is no longer on the horizon. Leeds United will continue their efforts to strengthen their squad as the transfer window concludes, keeping an eye out for other opportunities to improve their team.