Leeds United have reportedly submitted a formal £3m proposal to sign 1. FC Koln man Dejan Ljubicic this summer, as per the German outlet Bild.
After cashing in on Archie Gray and Glen Kamara in this transfer window, the Whites are seemingly looking to sign new midfielders to replace the duo. They have already acquired Joe Rothwell’s service from AFC Bournemouth on a loan deal.
However, it appears the Peacocks are looking to purchase another midfielder before the start of next season with Ljubicic emerging as the priority target.
According to the report by Bild, Leeds have already tabled a £3m offer to sign him but Koln have rejected it as they are hoping to keep hold of him to aid them in gaining promotion next season.
However, the report says that Ljubicic has entered the final year of his current contract and if the player decides not to renew his deal then the German side would be forced to cash in on him this summer to avoid losing him for free next year.
Leeds submit bid to sign Ljubicic
So, Bild states that Leeds haven’t given up on their hopes of purchasing him and are now planning to return with an improved proposal to secure his signature.
The Austrian international is valued at around £4m by Transfermarkt, hence a figure close to that could be enough to convince Koln to sell their star man. Therefore, Leeds could manage to purchase their key target if they increase their offer a bit.
The Yorkshire club have reportedly suffered a huge blow financially after failing to gain promotion last term. So, they have been forced to explore budget options in the market to reinforce their squad this summer.
The 26-year-old is comfortable playing in the holding midfield position as well as the box-to-box role. He is proficient with both feet and has experience of playing in a top league like German Bundesliga.
Therefore, he could be a shrewd signing for Leeds if they purchase him. However, it remains to be seen whether Daniel Farke’s side eventually manage to lure him to Elland Road in this transfer window.
