Rising Poland star reveals reasons for rejecting January Liverpool transfer

Jan Bieganski

Teenage midfielder Jan Bieganski has revealed the reasons why he rejected interest from Liverpool to make a switch across his native Poland.

Polish source WP SportoweFakty reports that the 18-year-old had interest from the Reds this month.

What’s more, Chelsea, Arsenal and Serie A side Lazio also tracked him.

However, the defensive midfielder opted to move up to the Polish top flight, from GKS Tychy to Lechia Gdansk. He has signed a four-year contract.

Speaking to the news outlet, Bieganski opened up on his motives for staying in his home country.

“There is no point in going deep into a foreign club right away,” the player said.

“History shows that many guys come back from there and have problems breaking into PKO Ekstraklasa [Polish top flight].

“My opinion is that if I manage in Lechia Gdansk, the next step will be abroad. However, I am fully aware that I have to work and develop step by step.”

As well as making moves on the domestic scene, Bieganski is also progressing on the international development pathway.

Jan Bieganski

The teenager has played for Poland’s Under-16s and Under-17s, but is now ready to step into the Under-19 ranks.

As such, he feels that staying in Poland will give him the best opportunity to propel his career.

“I believe that I have chosen the best path also in this respect,” he said.

“I am convinced that this is the right moment to take a step forward.

“With the Polish U-19 team, we have the first stage of qualifying for the European Championship in March and I hope that we will be able to move on and play at this tournament.”

Bieganski had made 12 appearances in the second tier this season before making his switch to the first division.

Liverpool eyeing centre-back

Amid the supposed interest in Bieganski, however, Liverpool’s definite top priority before the transfer window closes has become a centre-back signing.

Joel Matip‘s latest injury means that the Reds will be without any senior recognised players in the position for the foreseeable future.

As such, West Ham’s Issa Diop is the latest player to be linked with a switch to Anfield.

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