Gjanni Alioski says he wants to sign new Leeds United contract

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Gjanni Alioski has told BBC Radio Leeds that he wants to stay at Leeds United and sign a new contract with Marcelo Bielsa’s side after breaking into the starting eleven of late – with his current deal set to expire in the summer.

Alioski, 28, has started four of the last five Premier League games either as a left-back or on the left side of the midfield – starring on Saturday evening as Leeds secured a crucial three points with a 1-0 win over Everton.

The North Macedonia international’s form has been impossible to ignore for Bielsa, who has continued to include Alioski in the side – despite the presence of Rodrigo on the bench. Stuart Dallas has been moved into midfield.

Costing Leeds just £2million [Yorkshire Evening Post] in the summer of 2017 from FC Lugano, Alioski is one of Victor Orta’s biggest success stories at Leeds. But he is out of contract next summer and spoke about his future.

“Still nothing happened,” Alioski said. “I am here, my contract ends next year. I’m not thinking about leaving Leeds. I’m concentrated on playing for Leeds. Whatever happens, happens in the end, but of course I would love to stay.

“But I want to just enjoy the football and live in the moment. I see things in the media, but nothing has happened still. But I am focused on enjoying my time at Leeds.”

TBR’s view – On current form, Leeds have got to keep Alioski

It is rare to stumble across a player that fits all the traits required by Bielsa. Supreme fitness, check. Versatility that allows him to play in defence and midfield, check. A quirky edge, check. Alioski is ideal.

Combine that with Alioski having played for Leeds throughout Bielsa’s reign, he knows what the Argentine expects from him. Still only 28, Alioski deserves a contract that keeps him at Elland Road until at least his 30th birthday.