Leeds United are eyeing a move to sign Udinese defender Jaka Bijol this summer ahead of their return to the Premier League next season, according to Marco Conterio.
The Whites lifted the EFL Championship title last term with 100 points, though they will need to further bolster their squad to ensure they can escape any chance of relegation from the top-flight in the 2025/26 campaign.
Reports suggest Leeds owners' 49ers enterprise could splash up to £100 million in the transfer market to strengthen in a number of areas and some of the budget is expected to be put towards signing defensive reinforcements.
Leeds Eyeing Udinese Ace Bijol
Farke wants a new defender
As per Conterio, Leeds are considering a move for Bijol this summer and have agreed personal terms with the player, while Udinese are holding out for offers in the region of €20 million (£17 million) to part ways.
Jaka Bijol's 2024/25 Serie A statistics
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Progressive Passes per 90
Tackles Won per 90
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Leeds could be set to lose Max Wober amid interest from clubs in theBundesliga, and the Austrian's departure could clear enough space in the dressing room for Farke and his entourage to add another defender.
Bijol was a key element of the Udinese side that finished 12th in Serie A last season, making 37 appearances in all competitions and scoring two goals. The 26-year-old, dubbed an "absolute rock", is also a seasoned Slovenia international, and has amassed 62 caps since his debut in 2018.
Meanwhile, Bijol has left the door open on a departure from Italy, admitting that he would like to "make the leap" to a club in higher standing.
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Statistics courtesy of FBRef.com - Correct as of 08/06/2025