Leeds Expecting Jaka Bijol Offer as Premier League Club Plots Move

Leeds United are bracing for a potential transfer bid for their star centre-back Jaka Bijol, with reports suggesting a Premier League club is plotting a move for the 27-year-old Slovenian defender[1][2][3]. The 26-year-old, who joined from Udinese last summer for around £15 million (€18m), has become a vital part of Daniel Farke's defence since Leeds' promotion back to the top flight[1][2][3][4][5].

Bijol signed a five-year contract until 2030, marking Leeds' second summer signing after German striker Lukas Nmecha[2][3][4]. The towering defender impressed in Serie A with 37 appearances and two goals in his final season at Udinese, bringing over 250 club games, including Champions League and Europa League experience[3]. Internationally, he has 63 caps for Slovenia, playing every minute at Euro 2024, including clean sheets against England and a penalty shootout loss to Portugal in the last 16[1][2][3].

Now, Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport reports Fiorentina have reignited interest, listing Bijol amid their defensive crisis and relegation battle, especially with new director Fabio Paratici pushing a squad rebuild[5]. The Serie A side eyes him as a backup if another deal fails, valuing him at €18m. However, Leeds are unlikely to entertain offers; Bijol has been at Elland Road less than six months and is deemed essential for their Premier League survival[5].

Fans witnessed his arrival via behind-the-scenes footage from Thorp Arch and Elland Road, where the excited defender expressed eagerness for his debut[6]. As Leeds, backed by 49ers Enterprises, prepare under Paraag Marathe's ambitious transfer strategy, offloading Bijol mid-season would undermine their stability[4]. Sources indicate Leeds rebuffed initial interest, prioritizing defensive solidity[1][5].

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