Sources: Leeds United's stance on Jaka Bijol's future revealed
Leeds United are not concerns about Jaka Bijol's future despite a lack of playing time this season, sources have told Football Insider.
The 27-year-old was a mainstay in Daniel Farke's starting XI last season, but the arrivals of Tarik Muharemovic and Nico Elvedi have pushed him down the pecking order.
So far this season, the centre-back has started just two Premier League games, raising concerns about his place in the squad and potentially his long-term future at Elland Road.
However, as I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider, there are no internal doubts about Bijol's future at Leeds and he remains a key part of their plans.
The Slovenia international is still highly regarded by Farke and his coaching staff, who believe he will still have an important role to play in their ambitious plans this season.
Despite his lack of recent playing time, Bijol is expected to be afforded regular minutes in the side, which will quell any major concerns about his recent absence.
What is next for Jaka Bijol at Leeds United?
Football Insider reported on 8 October that Bijol is still in contention for a starting role at Leeds, despite having not been named in the XI since the second game of the season.
His recent lack of involvement had sparked concerns about his long-term future, and he will be keen to see his playing time increase, but it is not a problem as things stand.
Farke is still a big fan of Bijol, and believes he will play a key role when he does come into the side, but competition for places is tough after a strong transfer window.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "I don't think there are any major doubts about Jaka Bijol's future at Leeds United.
"Bijol was outstanding last season in his debut campaign for Leeds, become a big fan's favourite as well. He's just obviously found it more difficult this season.
"The summer signings Muharemovic and Nico Elvedi have both hit the ground running for Leeds and have now become two of the first names on the teamsheet.
"Bijol has found first-team opportunities limited so far this season, but he still has a role to play and if there are any injuries or losses of form, he will come straight into the side."
Could Bijol look to leave Leeds in January?
Doubts about Bijol's recent lack of playing time could lead to questions about his future at the club, after he was heavily linked with a move away during the summer.
The centre-back had a growing list of admirers thanks to his performances last season, and now that he has dropped out of the starting XI, he could be tempted away.
Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider earlier this year that Leeds were expecting to receive offers as a result of Bijol's displays at Elland Road.
While they were keen to block his departure during the summer, and that stance is unlikely to have changed, there is now a feeling the player could pursue an exit.
Bijol will be keen to continue playing regularly after last season's exploits, and if he cannot do that at Leeds, he may be forced to find a new club.