Leeds United and Udinese Agree on Jaka Bijol Transfer Fee
Leeds United and Udinese have reportedly reached a verbal agreement for the summer transfer of Slovenian defender Jaka Bijol.
Following the signing of Lukas Nmecha, Leeds are now closing in on their second acquisition of the current transfer window.
The 26-year-old centre-back has been a target for Leeds in recent weeks, and negotiations appear to be nearing completion.
Bijol Set to Join Leeds for £17 Million
According to Calciomercato journalist Francesco Guerrieri (June 16), both clubs have agreed on a £17 million transfer fee for Bijol.
This agreement has narrowed the gap in negotiations, resulting in a verbal deal between Leeds and the Serie A side to bring the defender to Elland Road.
Career Stats
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSKA Moscow | 96 | 7 | 8 |
| Udinese | 95 | 5 | 4 |
| Hannover 96 | 31 | 0 | 0 |
| Rudar Velenje | 30 | 3 | 3 |
Talks between the two clubs had been ongoing, but it now seems a resolution has finally been reached.
Although Newcastle had also expressed interest in the player, Leeds are aiming to wrap up the deal within the next week.
Guerrieri wrote on X: “Leeds have closed the gap by reaching a verbal agreement with Udinese for the purchase of Bijol. Deal worth just over €20 million.”
Bijol Could Form Strong Partnership with Joe Rodon at Leeds
Jaka Bijol and Joe Rodon have the potential to form a solid and complementary defensive pairing, which could be crucial to Leeds United’s efforts to remain in the Premier League.
Rodon, who has made 43 Premier League appearances, is well-versed in Daniel Farke’s high-pressing tactics. His composure on the ball, high pass accuracy, and aerial strength make him a dependable presence at the back.
Bijol, a 26-year-old Slovenian international with 54 caps, brings physical strength and excellent anticipation—attributes that suit Leeds’ expansive, attacking style of play.
Together, Rodon’s calm distribution and Bijol’s assertive defending could offer the balance needed in Farke’s system. Both players are suited to playing in a high defensive line, a key component of Leeds’ preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.
Their combined leadership qualities—Rodon’s vocal command and Bijol’s international experience—would provide vital stability to a relatively young squad.
This partnership could significantly reduce defensive errors, giving midfielders like Ethan Ampadu the confidence to play more freely and helping Leeds in their battle to avoid relegation.
With the deal nearly done, fans will be hoping there are no final setbacks.
