Leeds United are seeking to strike a deal for Rangers left-back Borna Barisic in the January transfer window, as reported by Leeds United News.
The Croatian international has entered the final six months of his contract at Ibrox having joined the club almost four years ago. His current employers are, according to the report, hoping he will agree to an extension.
Barisic joined Rangers under Steven Gerrard from NK Osijek in a deal potentially worth £2.2 million. The defender has gone on to make over 220 appearances for The Gers and helped them to break Celtic’s quest for 10 league titles in a row in 2021.
He was also a key member of Giovanni van Bronckhorst’s side who made it to the Europa League final in 2022.
Leeds are said to be facing competition for the defender’s signature from across Europe, with clubs in France, Spain and Italy believed to be looking to add the player to their squads.
The Elland Road outfit have been linked to several players during this transfer window, including West Ham United’s Ben Johnson, as manager Daniel Farke looks to hunt down the top two.
Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Jose Mourinho was an admirer of the defender and was ready to spend over £20 million for his services back in 2020. Leeds have also shown previous interest in the player, bidding £8 million under Marcelo Bielsa.
Leeds United favourite Gary McAllister worked with Barisic as Gerrard’s assistant and has described the player as having ‘a beautiful left foot.’
Writer’s View
Barisic may have a ‘beautiful left foot’ and be known for his crossing ability but some of the social media posts from Rangers fans regarding the reported contract extension offer suggest they would not be sad to see him leave.
If Leeds are looking to regain their Premier League status and then stay in the division, they should be looking at longer-term solutions instead of a 31-year-old defender described as being ‘past his best.’
A primary school teacher turned writer, Tom has been part of The Real EFL for two years. He focuses on predictions, deep dives, and insightful content.
