Liverpool Could Explore Jaka Bijol Transfer as Leeds Prepare for Summer Offers

Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Leeds United defender Jaka Bijol amid the Whites' preparations for a busy summer transfer window.[1][3]

Bijol, a 27-year-old Slovenian international, joined Leeds from Udinese in July 2025 for a fee between €22-23 million (£17-20 million), following initial bids around €15-17 million and Udinese's €20-25 million asking price.[1][2] His market value has since dipped to €18 million per Transfermarkt in January 2026, providing a potential bargain opportunity.[1]

At Leeds, Bijol has bolstered the central defense alongside Joe Rodon and Pascal Struijk in a new 3-5-2 formation under Daniel Farke, sparking an impressive run with just two defeats in 15 games.[3][5] Despite this, Leeds have kept no clean sheets recently, conceding seven in five matches, and face defensive concerns with Rodon injured.[3] The club, six points clear of relegation, anticipates a £100 million spending spree if they stay up, but are bracing for "a lot of interest" in the "fantastic" Bijol.[4][5]

Liverpool's interest stems from defensive needs, particularly on the right flank where 41% of attacks have come, exacerbated by the integration of ultra-attacking right-back Jeremie Frimpong as Trent Alexander-Arnold's replacement.[2][3] The reigning Premier League champions, who also signed Milos Kerkez and eye Florian Wirtz, see Bijol as a dependable option to strengthen their backline.[2]

Leeds' hierarchy must resist offers to retain Bijol, deemed crucial amid plans for a new goalkeeper and stadium expansion to 53,000 seats at Elland Road.[4][5][7] Farke, awaiting contract talks in his final year, has praised Bijol in recent interviews.[5][6] As summer approaches, Leeds' survival will dictate their strategy, but Premier League rivals like Liverpool could test their resolve.[1][3]

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