Leeds United have returned to the Premier League and have already added two new players to Daniel Farke’s squad.
Lukas Nmecha has agreed to join the Whites as a free agent, and three days ago the Whites signed Jaka Bijol from Udinese. The centre-back has committed to a five-year contract at Elland Road.
Bijol spent three years at the Serie A club and has left a very good impression.
Udinese wanted to keep the 26-year-old, but felt he deserved the chance should he wish to take it. Their sporting director, Gokhan Inler, has confirmed this during a chat with TV12, and Tutto Udinese have relayed his comments.
He was discussing the Italian club’s transfer plans, and spoke about the Slovenia international’s sale to Leeds. The defender was an integral part of Udinese’s side and played 95 games for them.
Inler is disappointing to see him leave, and like others have he praised the new Leeds United player.
“I think he deserves it, because a year ago there was a lot of talk about him,” he said.
“The coach and I really wanted him to stay, but that’s football. I wish him the best. He’s already done well this year, he’s also grown as a leader. He’s a good guy, and he’ll also stop by to say hello before starting his new adventure.”
The director is the latest to heap praise on the defender.
Last week, Gazzetta dello Sport said he was one of the leaders at Udinese and they will surely miss him. Former Udinese centre-back Alessandro Calori also hailed his qualities and is disappointed to see him leave the Italian club.
Bijol has already told the Slovenian media that he’s excited about joining the English club.
🇸🇪💬 Gabriel Gudmundsson | “That much is not true”
➡️ Fullback denies he’s visited Leeds United
➡️ …but he appears to flirt with Whites move
➡️ Wants to chill on holiday before transfer https://t.co/RwNdtmGTlg #lufc #mot
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) June 26, 2025