According to Tuttosport, as cited by Leeds Live, Napoli are keen on signing Ezgjan Alioski in the summer. The Serie A giants are closely monitoring the situation of the Leeds United star, whose contract at Elland Road expires at the end of the season. Alioski has been identified as a potential replacement for Foauzi Ghoulam, who will leave Naples in the summer.
Ezgjan Alioski’s Season So Far
Regarded as one of Leeds United’s most talented attackers, Ezgjan Alioski initially began the season as the desired backup for the preferred attacking duo of Jack Harrison and Helder Costa. However, Raphinha’s rapid rise to prominence saw him fall down the pecking order, reducing any hopes of making a breakthrough in the attacking position.
Alioski, though, was helped by an injuries crisis that forced Marcelo Bielsa to deploy Stuart Dallas in midfield. It paved the way for the north Macedonian international to enjoy some game-time midway through the campaign.
However, in recent months, Alioski has become a first-team regular, thanks to Dallas establishing himself as a key figure in the number ten role. The 29-year-old, as a result, has featured in every game since the turn of the year.
Should Leeds United Retain His Services?
Leeds United are facing a difficult situation regarding the contract situation of Ezgjan Alioski. While there is no doubt that the lack of depth in the club’s left-back unit has played a key role in helping the 29-year-old emerge as a first-team starter at Elland Road, Bielsa will be aware of the versatility he offers to the table.
At the same time, however, the Whites are more than likely to invest in a new left-back in the summer – someone who is more natural in that position and can offer better defensive resistance.
From a sporting perspective, keeping hold of Alioski might still be the wiser option, though. The attacker is considered a cult hero at Elland Road and is well familiar with Bielsa’s tactical setup, which could be useful if the new arrivals struggle to settle in quickly.
Alioski is also not exactly an expensive player either, so they shouldn’t have any financial difficulties in their bid to keep hold of his services. Leeds United, therefore, must certainly look to extend the contract of the North Macedonian international this summer, as Bielsa hopes to avoid a second season syndrome in the upcoming campaign.
