Jaka Bijol is now starting to show why Leeds invested £15m to sign him from Udinese in June.
The Slovenian had to wait until the 2-1 win over West Ham for his first Premier League appearance as Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk were preferred, but has managed to become a starter alongside the duo after Daniel Farke switched to a 3-5-2 formation.
Due to his strong displays, which include a thumping header in the 3-1 win over Chelsea, there has since been talk of Atletico Madrid wanting to sign Jaka Bijol as a replacement for Clement Lenglet.
Slovenian news outlet Ekipa now clear up that situation for Leeds fans, confidently stating that it is total nonsense.
Leeds United fans told not to worry about Atletico Madrid poaching Jaka Bijol
Ekipa have completely rubbished the story, which they state originated from Matteo Moretta and claims that Diego Simeone is ready to spend €30m (£26m) on the defender.
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It is said that Atletico Madrid did hold an interest in Bijol – who is pleased Farke that changed formation – 18 months ago after UEFA Euro 2024 finished, but it went no further than that.
The Slovenia international has only made eight appearances for Leeds since arriving from Udinese, so it would make little sense for Atletico Madrid to target the 26-year-old now given the fact it is highly unlikely the 49ers entertain any negotiations.
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Jaka Bijol could represent a PSR escape route for Leeds United if his fine form continues
Selling Bijol in January would be bizarre as Leeds remain in a relegation battle, although a sale before June 30th once the season ends might make sense for the 49ers.
Here is the situation. Robbie Evans revealed in September that Leeds have already hit the limit when it comes to PSR – and sales are needed if any permanent signings are made in January.
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“This summer, we spent everything we could. Unequivocally, we are maxing PSR out this season. If we had gone on to other targets [on deadline day], the consequences would have been seen in the current roster. More key players from last season would have had to go.”
Robbie Evans on Leeds United’s PSR position
Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
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However, Leeds can still choose to spend and make up for it in the summer, so long as the sales happen before a June 30th deadline.
So, if Bijol continues to shine, he could be sold for a quick profit in June to help Leeds escape any potential points deductions for a breach of PSR, given his status as one of the most saleable assets at Elland Road right now.
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