Exclusive: 49ers now set to agree £15m deal, as Player has given his word to join Leeds United
Leeds United Edge Closer to First Summer Signing as 49ers Eye Premier League Return
While no official signings are expected to be announced at Leeds United until the end of June, early indications suggest that the club could finalize a deal ahead of schedule — and it may be a significant one. With ambitions running high and the Premier League firmly in their sights, the 49ers ownership group is preparing to make a strong statement in this summer’s transfer window.
Strategic Spending Underway Despite Financial Guardrails
Chairman Paraag Marathe has made it clear that Leeds will leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of promotion, reportedly willing to spend “every last penny” allowed under the current Profit and Sustainability Regulations (PSR). Though financial restrictions remain, they are expected to be far less restrictive for Leeds than for many of their rivals. Reports have suggested up to £150 million could be available for new signings, though club insiders are urging caution, noting that the figure might not reflect the actual flexibility Leeds has.
Nevertheless, the club seems intent on acting decisively in the market, and the first potential signing of the summer is already taking shape — and it could be a critical one for manager Daniel Farke’s defensive strategy.
Jaka Bijol Closing in on Leeds Move as Talks Progress
Slovenian centre-back Jaka Bijol, currently with Serie A side Udinese, is believed to be on the verge of joining Leeds United. The 26-year-old has been a long-time target for the Whites, and after several days of ongoing discussions, the club appears to be making real progress in bringing him to Elland Road.
Bijol, who has drawn interest from Italian giants Inter Milan and AC Milan, reportedly favors a move to England, with the Premier League a long-standing dream of his. Despite Udinese previously rejecting a bid from Leeds — the amount of which hasn’t been publicly disclosed — sources say the asking price has been around £18 to £19 million.
However, in a promising development, LeedsUnited.News has reported via transfer insider Graeme Bailey that the 49ers are close to striking a deal for a reduced fee. According to Bailey:
> “Told that talks are ongoing…we expect a deal worth £15 million to be agreed. The player has made it clear he wants the move.”
If this valuation holds, it would represent a savvy acquisition for Leeds — a statement of intent by the 49ers and a smart bit of business for a club eager to rebuild after back-to-back underwhelming windows.
Forming a Formidable Defensive Partnership
The potential arrival of Bijol could transform Leeds’ defensive setup heading into the 2025/26 campaign. With Joe Rodon expected to remain a key figure in the backline, pairing him with Bijol would provide the physical presence and tactical discipline that Daniel Farke’s system has often lacked.
Bijol has built a strong reputation in Italy for his composure, aerial dominance, and leadership at the back. Dubbed “brilliant” by pundits in Serie A, he is seen as an ideal partner for Rodon and a cornerstone for Leeds’ promotion ambitions. The club’s struggles over the past two transfer windows have put pressure on the current regime to deliver, and this move — if completed — would be a major step in the right direction.
Optimism Building Ahead of Crucial Window
While the summer transfer window is still in its early stages, Leeds United fans have reason to be optimistic. The 49ers are acting with purpose, and the imminent signing of Jaka Bijol could signal a proactive approach that sets the tone for the rest of the window.
If everything continues to progress as expected, Bijol could be the first of several new faces at Elland Road — and one that might define the club’s defensive identity for years to come.
Stay tuned, as the coming weeks could prove decisive in shaping Leeds United’s path back to the Premier League.