It took far longer than expected, but Leeds United announced the arrival of Jaka Bijol on Monday night, days after Bijol was reported as passing a medical on Wednesday night.
The 63-time Slovenia international has joined Leeds for a £15m fee from Udinese, putting pen to paper on a five-year contract until the summer of 2030. He is Leeds’ second signing after striker Lukas Nmecha.
The Whites are expected to do a whole lot more business this summer, but the addition of Bijol is a big step in the right direction. Landing the Slovenian for just £15m is seen as a real coup for The Whites.
The expectation is that when the Premier League season begins, Bijol will start at centre-back alongside Joe Rodon. It sees Bijol replace Pascal Struijk, allowing Ethan Ampadu to return to his midfield duties.
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Lucas Radebe posts on social media after Jaka Bijol signing
Leeds fans are delighted that the club have finally managed to get Bijol over the line, and it certainly wins sporting director Adam Underwood some trust – after many were worried about his initial appointment.
Less than an hour after Leeds had confirmed the signing of Bijol from Udinese at 5pm on Monday, Leeds icon Lucas Radebe posted on social media. He spoke of his excitement to see a new-look Leeds team.
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Certainly, the Whites are expected to add another six signings during the summer window, at the very least: “Looking forward to an exciting new season with a new look Leeds United. Very interesting.”
Jaka Bijol’s off-camera moments as Leeds announce signing
Bijol underwent media duties on Monday following the announcement of his arrival at Elland Road, but was also followed around by club cameras. LUTV then posted a video of the day in which he signed.
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It includes Bijol telling LUTV commentator Bryn Law, before speaking officially to the camera, that he can speak five languages including Russian, German and Croatian. Bijol is also seen in the Elland Road stands.
Bijol’s first impressions of Elland Road are good, with Bijol seen telling a representative that he likes how close the fans are to the pitch. Bijol could make his debut against Everton on August 18 at Elland Road.