‘Here We Go’ – Fabrizio Romano: Leeds Agree Deal to Sign ‘Outstanding’ Star
Leeds United Secure £19m Deal for Udinese Centre-Back Jaka Bijol as Farke Plans Premier League Survival Push
Leeds United have reportedly struck an agreement to bring Slovenian international centre-back Jaka Bijol to Elland Road, with a transfer fee of approximately £19 million on the table. The news was broken by renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, who confirmed that personal terms between the player and the club have already been agreed, and that a medical is expected to take place shortly.
Following their triumphant return to the Premier League—clinching the Championship title with a remarkable 100 points and narrowly edging out Burnley on goal difference—Leeds are wasting no time in strengthening their squad. With survival in the top flight being the immediate priority, manager Daniel Farke is moving swiftly to reinforce key positions.
Bijol is seen as a major coup for Leeds, bringing with him experience from Italy’s Serie A, where he has been a standout performer for Udinese. Former England striker Alan Shearer once described the commanding centre-back as “outstanding,” praising his strength, aerial dominance, and calmness under pressure. At 6’4″, Bijol offers a significant physical presence at the heart of the defence—something Leeds will likely need when coming up against Premier League attacking talent.
If all goes to plan, Bijol will become Leeds’ second confirmed signing of the summer, following the acquisition of German forward Lukas Nmecha on a free transfer from Wolfsburg. Nmecha, who will officially join the club on July 1 after the expiration of his contract, marks the first step in a recruitment drive that appears focused on mixing proven experience with youth and potential.
Leeds’ early activity in the transfer market has not gone unnoticed. With pre-season just around the corner, the club’s ambition to have new signings in place ahead of the squad’s return from holiday sends a strong signal of intent. It suggests a strategic and proactive approach to recruitment—something that could prove crucial in the battle to avoid relegation.
The statistics are sobering: in each of the last two Premier League seasons, all three promoted teams were relegated immediately. Leeds will be acutely aware of this trend and are evidently determined to buck the pattern. By securing key targets early and giving Farke ample time to integrate new players into his system, the club hopes to give itself the best possible chance of not just surviving, but potentially thriving in the top tier.
In Bijol, Leeds are acquiring a defender with the credentials to anchor their backline and contribute leadership and composure at the highest level. And with more deals expected in the coming weeks, it’s clear the club is committed to building a team capable of competing with the very best.