Leeds United on Verge of Sealing Jaka Bijol Deal as Farke Eyes Trio of Further Signings
Leeds United are closing in on their second summer signing, with Jaka Bijol expected to complete his move to Elland Road within the next 72 hours. The Slovenia international is set to undergo a medical this week after the Whites beat out late competition from Newcastle to secure his signature.
Bijol, 26, has been a key defensive target for Daniel Farke as the club prepares for its Premier League return. Having initially seen a €15m bid rejected, Leeds returned with an improved €22m (£18.75m) offer that met Udinese’s asking price. Personal terms have already been agreed, and Fabrizio Romano confirmed the deal is done pending medicals.
With Bijol set to join forward Lukas Nmecha as Leeds’ second summer addition, Udinese have reportedly lined up Spezia’s Nicolo Bertola as his replacement.
Meanwhile, Farke and sporting director Adam Underwood are actively pursuing three additional targets to strengthen the squad — a full-back, a midfielder, and a striker.
One potential arrival is Bournemouth right-back Max Aarons, who came close to joining Leeds last summer. The move fell through after Bournemouth swooped in, but with his time on the South Coast faltering and a short loan spell at Valencia behind him, Aarons could be available for around £12m. Farke, who knows the player well, is keen on a reunion.
Leeds are also targeting Southampton midfielder Mateus Fernandes. The 20-year-old impressed despite the Saints’ relegation, making 42 appearances across all competitions. However, the reported £29.8m asking price could test Leeds’ budget, with Forest and Palace also in the race.
Up front, Leeds are pushing for Fulham striker Rodrigo Muniz. After netting 11 goals last season, the Brazilian has caught the eye. While Leeds are prepared to match their record £35m fee for the forward, Fulham’s £50m valuation may prove a stumbling block.
More Transfer Moves on the Horizon
Leeds are also monitoring Chelsea goalkeeper Djordje Petrovic and Atletico Madrid left-back Reinildo Mandava, the latter available on a free. With Junior Firpo nearing a return to Real Betis, Reinildo is seen as a potential replacement.
In outgoing news, striker Joe Gelhardt is attracting interest from Wrexham, who have already landed Ryan Hardie from Plymouth. Talks are ongoing, with Wrexham reportedly aware of Leeds’ asking price.
Why Bijol Fits the Leeds Project
Bijol arrives with strong credentials. A product of Rudar Velenje, he made a name for himself at CSKA Moscow and gained further experience during a loan spell at Hannover. Since joining Udinese in 2022, the defender has made 95 appearances and scored five goals.
Known for his composure, versatility, and leadership, Bijol can play with both feet and has even featured in midfield earlier in his career. His standout performances for Slovenia at Euro 2024 further solidified his reputation as a modern centre-back ready for the Premier League stage.
