Leeds United have reportedly secured a major transfer coup by reaching an agreement to sign Slovenian centre-back Jaka Bijol from Udinese. While the deal has been finalized in principle, the official confirmation from both clubs is yet to come.
According to multiple sources, Leeds and Udinese have agreed on a €22 million (£18.75m, $25.4m) transfer fee for the 26-year-old defender, who will join the West Yorkshire side ahead of their Premier League return. Negotiations progressed rapidly in recent weeks, culminating in the completion of the deal, although formal announcements are expected in the coming days.
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Transfer Agreement Reached, Announcement Imminent
The completion of the transfer marks an important milestone in Leeds United’s preparations for the 2025/26 Premier League season. The club have made no secret of their desire to strengthen the defensive line, and Bijol is viewed as the ideal addition to partner Joe Rodon at the heart of their backline.
Despite the transfer being “done,” Leeds have yet to officially unveil the Slovenian international. This is common practice as clubs often wait to finalize medicals, paperwork, or coordinate announcements. Fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation that Bijol will become a key figure at Elland Road.
Bijol’s Impact in Serie A and Premier League Ambitions
Jaka Bijol has established himself as a reliable and composed defender during his time at Udinese, where he signed in 2022. He has amassed 95 appearances, contributing five goals while consistently delivering strong performances throughout the Serie A campaign, particularly in the 2024/25 season when he helped the club keep eight clean sheets in 34 league outings.
The Slovenian centre-back has expressed enthusiasm about the prospect of competing in England’s top division. While he has taken his time to consider options, Leeds’ project and vision have clearly appealed to him as a platform to develop further.
Leeds Preparing a Solid Defensive Core
Leeds United’s defensive plans are crystal clear. They see Jaka Bijol as the ideal partner for Joe Rodon, forming a reliable central defensive duo ahead of their Premier League campaign. The scouting department at Elland Road has closely monitored Bijol’s progress for the last three to four months, with multiple reports praising his composure on the ball and tactical discipline.
With Max Wober set to leave the club during the current transfer window, Leeds are shuffling their defensive pack. Daniel Farke is expected to use Pascal Struijk as rotation cover for Bijol and Rodon, while Ethan Ampadu is tipped to revert to his preferred role in midfield. Bijol’s arrival would not only add stability but also inject fresh leadership into the defensive structure.
Busy Transfer Window Ahead for Leeds
Leeds are not limiting their transfer ambitions to Jaka Bijol alone. The club has been actively targeting other areas of the squad to strengthen. Names such as Rodrigo Muniz, Semih Kilicsoy, and Noah Sadiki have surfaced as part of Leeds’ ambitious recruitment drive. They’ve already secured the services of former Manchester City talent Felix Nmecha on a free transfer, highlighting the proactive nature of their summer business.
Having stormed through the Championship with a remarkable 100-point campaign to clinch automatic promotion, the club hierarchy understands the challenges that lie ahead in England’s top division. Planning early and decisively in the transfer window is seen as essential to their survival and growth strategy.
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FAQs
Who is Jaka Bijol?
A 26-year-old Slovenian centre-back playing for Udinese, known for his defensive strength and leadership.
What’s the transfer fee?
Leeds are set to pay around €22m (£18.75m, $25.4m) for his signature.
Why do Leeds want him?
Leeds see Bijol as the ideal partner for Joe Rodon to strengthen their defence for the Premier League.
Are other clubs interested?
Some Premier League clubs showed interest, but Leeds are leading the race. Serie A clubs are not in active talks.
When will Leeds announce the Jaka Bijol signing officially?
While the deal is complete, official confirmation is expected soon after finalizing medicals and paperwork, likely within the coming days.
