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Marcelo Bielsa told to consider keeping Galatasaray-linked Ezgjan Alioski at Leeds United
Dominic Matteo has told Marcelo Bielsa to consider keeping Ezgjan Alioski at Leeds United in his column for the .
Alioski is set to leave Elland Road when his contract expires at the end of next month with new terms yet to be agreed. Reports by the claim the left-back rejected Leeds’ offer of a new deal and will pursue a future elsewhere.
Galatasaray are keen to sign the North Macedonia international on a free transfer. The Super Lig giant’s interest has also been noted by , who claim he reacted positively to the idea of a move to Istanbul.
Former Leeds left-back Matteo believes Alioski would leave a gap in Bielsa’s squad if he is allowed to go. But a Bosman exit may not be what’s best for the Elland Road outfit.
“Hopefully, we can bring a couple of players in to strengthen the group, especially with the loss of the players who are heading out the door,” Matteo . “Gjanni Alioski is obviously well-liked by the lads at Leeds, he’s a bit lively at times.
“He’s surprised me a little bit this season with his performances, he really has done alright and maybe it’s worth keeping him. Regardless of what he decides to do, we will still need to strengthen in the left-back area.”
TBR’s view: Leeds should let Alioski go
Alioski ended the Premier League season on a high in what could prove to be his last appearance for Leeds. The 29-year-old was continually willing to push up the pitch against West Bromwich Albion, although his final ball was occasionally lacking.
But things were not always rosy in the top-flight for Alioski, who cut a fringe player in Leeds’ penultimate game against Southampton. Rarely could he impact the game at either end, which was often the foundations of his season.
Too frequently Alioski could frustrate his teammates and Bielsa’s team in the dugout by his poor positioning and work on the ball. He gave away a lot of fouls, too, and repeatedly lacked composure to deliver the right pass in the final third.
Alioski would make a good squad option at Leeds next season if a new contract on sensible terms can be agreed. But a move to Galatasaray may be what’s best for both sides if Bielsa has a suitable replacement lined up.