Cliff Notes – Leeds sign Slovenia centre-back Jaka Bijol from Udinese
- Leeds United have secured the signing of Jaka Bijol, a 26-year-old defender, on a five-year contract for a reported fee of £15 million from Udinese.
- Bijol has earned 63 international caps for Slovenia, participating in all four matches during the 2024 European Championship.
- He played a key role in Slovenia’s defence, notably achieving 0-0 draws against England and Portugal, before the team was eliminated in the round of 16.
Leeds sign Slovenia centre-back Jaka Bijol from Udinese
Jaka Bijol has 63 international caps for Slovenia. Newly promoted Premier League club Leeds have signed veteran Slovenia defender Jaka Bijol, the club announced on Tuesday.
Leeds said the 26-year-old centre back signed a five-year deal. The transfer fee paid to Udinese was reportedly around £15 million ($20m).
Bijol has played 63 times for Slovenia, including all four games at the 2024 European Championship.
He helped shut out the England attack led by Harry Kane and Portugal’s attack led by Cristiano Ronaldo in 0-0 draws. Slovenia were eliminated by Portugal in the round of 16 after a penalty shootout.
Slovenia start their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in September in a competitive group with Switzerland, Sweden and Kosovo.
Leeds, whose United States ownership group is led by 49ers Enterprises, begin their Pemier League season hosting Everton on Aug. 18.
