Jaka Bijol to Leeds United transfer update as Daniel Farke target sends cryptic message
Leeds United Set for Crucial Summer Rebuild with £100m War Chest Ahead of Premier League Return
Leeds United are gearing up for what could be one of the most significant summer transfer windows in the club’s recent history. With business set to officially resume on Monday, June 16, the Whites are preparing for a busy few months as they return to the Premier League under the guidance of manager Daniel Farke.
After a dominant campaign in the Championship, promotion celebrations have quickly given way to strategic planning. The top-flight poses a far greater challenge, and Farke knows all too well that early preparation will be vital if Leeds are to establish themselves in the Premier League and avoid an immediate return to the second tier — a fate that met all three promoted clubs last season.
To bolster their survival chances, Leeds are expected to back their manager heavily in the market. According to multiple reports, Farke will be handed a sizeable £100 million transfer budget. While such a figure might barely cover a marquee signing at elite clubs like Manchester City or Liverpool, for Leeds, it represents an opportunity to reinforce several key areas of the squad and build a team with depth, balance, and Premier League know-how.
Strengthening across all positions is believed to be on the agenda. From shoring up the defence to adding creativity in midfield and depth up front, Leeds are taking a holistic approach to ensure they are battle-ready for the 2025/26 campaign. Already, a number of targets have been identified — and two names, in particular, are beginning to dominate the headlines.
Defensive Anchor Jaka Bijol High on the Wishlist
One of Leeds’ top transfer priorities this summer is reinforcing the heart of their defence. As the Premier League demands physicality, discipline, and composure at the back, the Whites have identified Udinese centre-back Jaka Bijol as a leading candidate to fill that role.
The 26-year-old Slovenian international has steadily risen through the ranks in Serie A and has now emerged as a high-priority target for the Elland Road club. Initial estimates had Bijol’s price tag around £19 million, but recent developments suggest Leeds may be able to secure his signature for a slightly reduced fee.
Yorkshire Evening Post journalist Joe Donnohue has reported that the two clubs remain engaged in ongoing negotiations, with insiders in Italy believing that a fee in the region of €20 million (approximately £17 million) could be enough to finalise a deal.
Donnohue posted on X (formerly Twitter):
“Sources close to the deal in Italy believe €20million (£17m) will get an agreement over the line for #LUFC target Jaka Bijol. Leeds and Udinese remain in negotiations for the Slovenia international defender.”
Bijol’s experience in a tactically demanding league like Serie A and his international pedigree make him a compelling addition — one that could add both leadership and steel to a back line that will face far tougher tests next season.
Alex Moreno – A Savvy Option for Left-Back Reinforcement
In addition to bolstering their central defence, Leeds are also aiming to bring in a seasoned left-back — and Aston Villa’s Alex Moreno has emerged as a concrete option.
The 31-year-old Spaniard, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Nottingham Forest, is expected to leave Villa Park permanently this summer. Leeds Live recently confirmed the club’s interest, and talks between Leeds and Villa are reportedly already underway.
Fueling speculation further, Moreno posted a cryptic message to his Instagram story which read: “When you have a farewell and you don’t know what awaits you.” The post has been interpreted by many as a subtle hint regarding his next move — possibly to Elland Road.
Villa are understood to be open to letting the defender go for around £5 million, a figure that represents excellent value considering Moreno’s experience in La Liga and the Premier League. Known for his energetic overlapping runs, solid defensive positioning, and professionalism, Moreno could prove a cost-effective and reliable addition to Daniel Farke’s squad.
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Leeds United Transfer Watch: Stay in the Loop
For fans eager to stay up to date with every twist and turn of Leeds’ transfer dealings, there’s now an easy way to receive breaking news and updates straight to your phone. By joining the Leeds United community on WhatsApp, supporters can get instant alerts about signings, rumours, and exclusive insights.
Joining is simple — just click the link provided by Leeds Live and select ‘Join Community’ to get started. Your personal information remains private, and you’ll only receive messages directly from the Leeds Live sports team — no spam, no noise, just football updates.
Additionally, community members will get access to exclusive content, promotional offers, and special features as part of the club’s growing digital engagement initiative.
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Looking Ahead
As the countdown to the transfer window continues, anticipation is building among the Leeds United faithful. With a Premier League campaign to prepare for and a healthy budget to work with, Daniel Farke and his recruitment team have a huge opportunity to lay the foundations for a successful top-flight future.
Early signs suggest that Leeds intend to make calculated, intelligent moves in the market — aiming not just for survival, but for sustainability and growth in the Premier League era to come.