Köln’s Dejan Ljubičić has responded to the transfer rumors surrounding him. Leeds United are interested in the midfielder to replace the departing Glen Kamara.
Ljubičić only has 12 months left on his contract. According to BILD, the Austrian isn’t keen on extending his stay at the RheinEnergieStadion. Die Geißböcke would want to cash him out this summer but apparently, they are willing to take the risk of keeping him.
The Whites are set to return with an improved bid but Köln don’t seem willing to lose the midfielder’s services. The Austrian had a difficult year last season when he was hit by illnesses and personal issues.
“There were a few personal issues that weren’t easy for me. Because of that, I lost interest in football, was often ill and couldn’t get into the rhythm. At times I played two or three games. After that I was absent for a longer period because my immune system wasn’t up to it. So I just want to put the last year behind me and look forward.”
–Dejan Ljubičić via 90Minuten
Although, things have changed this season. The 26-year-old midfielder is back in form as he assisted a goal in their 1-2 opening loss against Hamburger SV.
Dejan Ljubičić responds to transfer rumors
Credits: Imago Images
In an interview with 90Minuten, Dejan shared his thoughts regarding the transfer rumors.
“Rumours are part of football. But I don’t concern myself with them. I’m here in Cologne, where I want to perform well again. I want to show people that ‘Dejan is playing good, powerful football again’, which is what has distinguished me in recent years.”
–Dejan Ljubičić via 90Minuten
Dejan looks keen to focus on what’s in his hands at the moment. Ljubičić probably doesn’t want to cause a stir among fans, team and management amidst these tough times.
On the other hand, FC Köln were doing well just two seasons ago but last season didn’t go as planned for The Billy Goats. Now, the German outfit will be battling for promotion in the German second tier.
Things look tough for the 2. Bundesliga side and that can be good news for Leeds United. However, even with their problems, Köln are stubborn in their plan of not selling the Austrian.
The West Yorkshire outfit will have to come up with a new undeniable bid. This can probably work by raising the transfer fee bar as finances aren’t that much of a problem for Leeds. The club has earned enough from player sales this summer.
