Leeds United will aim to increase their defensive ranks in the coming weeks with a move for Udinese star Jaka Bijol, according to reports – with the Whites ‘optimistic’ over closing a deal for the centre-back after accelerating in talks earlier in the week.
A monumental Championship campaign last time out saw the Whites clinch a stunning title on the final day of the season, mustering 100 points to end a two-year stint in the second-tier in emphatic fashion. But with additions needed to stay in the Premier League, Bijol has been targeted and that could see them
Report: Leeds ‘Optimistic’ Over Bijol Deal, Talks ‘Accelerating’
The Whites know the trials and tribulations of a relegation battle
The report by The Athletic states that Leeds remain optimistic about completing a deal for Bijol, with talks focused on a deal that is thought to be valued as high at £15.2million.
Jaka Bijol’s Serie A statistics – Udinese squad ranking
Stats
Output
Squad rank
Appearances
34
=3rd
Goals
1
=8th
Aerials Won Per Game
3.2
1st
Clearances Per Game
5.4
1st
Tackles Per Game
1.3
=5th
Match rating
6.70
5th
The report states that of those who have been linked with the Whites in the public domain, the most advanced negotiations are with the Serie A outfit over Bijol’s signing, which would be the first major addition at Elland Road this summer.
Owners, 49ers Enterprises, could spend up to £100million to bolster Daniel Farke‘s side ahead of a potential transfer push this summer, and with talks ‘accelerating’ over the weekend, a deal could be completed sooner than any other potential targets.
Bijol has made 90 appearances for Udinese at the heart of their defence over the past three seasons, being labelled as ‘outstanding‘ in the process – and the Slovenian star also has European experience in the UEFA Champions League and the Europa League with CSKA Moscow, which ideally is where Leeds will want to be playing their football in the long-term.
At 26 years of age, Bijol has become a key player at Udinese and for the Slovenia national team, and his signing would improve their defensive ranks in terms of physicality and height to defend against relentless attackers.
Leeds are also thought to be considering moves for Norwich City star Josh Sargent and Everton talisman Beto in attack, which would leave money to improve elsewhere in their bid to stay in the Premier League, which no promoted side has done for the past two seasons.
Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 12-06-25.
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