Dejan Ljubicic appeared to be Leeds United’s top choice midfielder this summer.
The Whites are looking for a more attacking number eight, and FC Koln’s Ljubicic was a target early in the transfer window.
Leeds made an unsuccessful £3.3 million deal for Ljubicic, and all indicators pointed to a second bid, similar to how they did to recruit Jayden Bogle from Sheffield United.
However, nothing has changed since then, with Leeds opting to explore other targets due to the amount Koln is requesting to sell him.
Much of the attention in recent weeks has focused on who Leeds would sign to replace Crysencio Summerville, but a new midfielder is arguably just as crucial.
Leeds should pursue Liverpool’s Stefan Bajcetic.
Ilia Gruev demonstrated on Saturday that he lacks the necessary skills to perform in that more advanced midfield spot.
Gruev generated some decent set-pieces and, on another day, may have had a goal and an assist, but he lacks the flair in his passing to flourish in open play.
It will be interesting to see who Leeds will now target, and Liverpool’s Stefan Bajcetic might be an intriguing possibility.
Bajcetic actually missed practically the whole 2023/24 season due to injury, which was a frustrating turn of events for the Spaniard after such an amazing breakout season the previous year.
With Liverpool in the midst of a midfield crisis, Jurgen Klopp elevated Bajcetic to the first team, where he appeared 19 times, 15 of which were in the Premier League or Champions League.
After so long out injured, Bajcetic is projected to fall behind a number of midfielders in the pecking order under new manager Arne Slot, so regular playing time may be what he requires.
However, Bajcetic appeared quite at home during his time under Klopp, with Jamie Carragher even rushing to Twitter to praise him ‘excellent’ after a win away to Wolves.
Bajcetic can play as a defensive midfielder or number eight, and his passing and ability to get on the half turn make him the type of player Leeds need.
Joe Rothwell and Charlie Crew could receive a Carabao Cup chance.
Daniel Farke will have the opportunity to rotate his side on Wednesday night when Leeds play Middlesbrough in the Carabao Cup.
Given that he has yet to establish his ideal midfield dynamic or expand his options with a new signing, the two who did not start on Saturday deserve a chance.
Joe Rothwell looked promising when he came off the bench, and a strong performance in the cup might propel him into contention for the league XI.
Charlie Crew, meantime, shone in preseason and, given he still awaits his senior debut, this is an excellent opportunity.
