Is it smart to move from Leeds to Istanbul after what happened in 2000?

Ezgjan Alioski, Macedonian wing-back for Leeds United is reportedly close to making a transfer to the Turkish giants Galatasaray and the Yorkshire fans have reacted furiously to reports Alioski has agreed to making a move to Istanbul.

The Turkish side are hated by those at Elland Road after two travelling fans were stabbed to death by Galatasaray supporters prior to the UEFA Cup (now Europa League) semi-final in 2000. The loss of Kevin Speight and Christopher Loftus is still felt incredibly deeply and the feud between the clubs remains.

Elland Road after the tragedy in Istanbul (©Michael Steele/Gallo Images)

It is regarded as a significant act of betrayal by many fans for a Leeds player to join Galatasaray.

And many have voiced their opinion on social media following a report by Football Insider that Alioski has agreed a pre-contract to join the rivals in the summer.

As Sportsmail reports, social media rants by Leeds supporters are numerous.

One wrote: 'If Alioski goes there, his high regard and reputation with Leeds fans is destroyed!! Has to be the biggest DO NOT for any Leeds player!! Past present or future..'

'Would much rather see one of the u23s get a chance at lb than Alioski for the rest of the season. If you're Leeds, you don't move to a direct rival, simple.' second added.

Another one tweeted 'They suit each other. Gala is an awful football club and Alioski is an awful footballer.'

Some wrote stronger messages, implying one cannot perform such a move while knowing the history of the club from Yorkshire.

'Washed my hands with Alioski if he f***s off to those vermin.'

Also 'Alioski can f*** off, he obviously knows the history between the two clubs.'

Leeds and Galatasaray fans clashed in violent scenes 21 years ago at 21:00 in Istanbul's Taksim Square.

Following the two tragic deaths, local police arrested and charged four Galatasaray supporters with murder.

South African legend Lucas Radebe captaining Leeds against Galatasaray (©Michael Steele/Gallo Images)

As strange as the situation is, Alioski wouldn't be the first who would play for two confronted sides after the tragedy. Former club legend Harry Kewell previously soured his relationship with Leeds fans after moving to Galatasaray from Liverpool in 2008.

At the time he said: 'It was a tragic thing in football but we can't live in the past. I am happy and I hope everyone else can be too.

'There were a lot of other clubs out there but this is perfect for me. Galatasaray wanted me from the start. The facilities are great. It's a fantastic city and I'm willing to learn.'