Leeds United ‘to announce Jaka Bijol’ transfer amid huge Newcastle development
Leeds United have been making progress in their pursuit to sign Udinese defender Jaka Bijol this summer.
Newcastle are understood to be keen on signing a centre-back as well and have been linked with the Slovenian.
They can even offer him Champions League football next season – a feat secured on the final day of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.
Elland Road sources confident of Bijol’s arrival
According to Graham Smyth in the Yorkshire Evening Post (16 June), sources at Elland Road are confident of signing the defender despite Newcastle’s interest.
Leeds are hoping to finalise Bijol’s transfer come the end of next week to make him their next summer signing.
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| CSKA Moscow | 96 | 7 | 8 |
| Udinese | 95 | 5 | 4 |
| Hannover 96 | 31 | 0 | 0 |
| Rudar Velenje | 30 | 3 | 3 |
The Whites have already made their first acquisition of the transfer window by signing former Manchester City attacker Lukas Nmecha.
Udinese are expected to accept £17million for Bijol and talks have been ongoing with the West Yorkshire outfit.
The 26-year-old wants to move to England and play Premier League football next season.
Leeds United can get priced out if Newcastle prioritise Bijol
Leeds United risk being priced out of signing Bijol if Newcastle prioritise him due to their financial muscle, guaranteed Premier League status and Champions League football.
The Magpies’ healthier balance sheet, bolstered by a PSR boost, allows them to outbid Leeds, whose transfer budget is stretched across multiple targets.
Newcastle can more comfortably meet Udinese’s demands and can also offer higher wages to him.
Their established Premier League position contrasts with Leeds’ newly promoted status, making them a safer bet for the 26-year-old’s career stability.
Additionally, Newcastle’s Champions League qualification offers Bijol the allure of elite European competition, unavailable at the Elland Road outfit, who face a relegation battle.
Despite Leeds’ optimism and Bijol’s agreed personal terms, Newcastle’s superior resources and prestige could sway the Slovenian defender, making it imperative for a quick transfer.