Jaka Bijol is widely expected to be announced as Leeds United’s second signing of the summer window – and his arrival will significantly improve the club’s chances of avoiding relegation.
Bijol, 26, has agreed a move to Leeds and as things stand on Sunday morning, an £18.75m deal is done. It is just awaiting confirmation from either Udinese or Leeds to publicly announce the defender’s transfer.
Leeds have pulled off a coup in signing the 63-time Slovenia defender. Regarded as one of the best in the air when it comes to defenders in Europe’s top-five leagues, Leeds have beaten big clubs to land Bijol.
Inter Milan, Roma, AC Milan and Napoli have all been linked in Italian media. Newcastle were touted with hijacking Leeds’ move for Bijol, but a deal is done – and it could unlock the potential of Ao Tanaka.
Why Jaka Bijol’s signing could get best out of Ao Tanaka
When Tanaka signed from Fortuna Dusseldorf on deadline day in 2024, the Japan star was seen as a box-to-box midfielder. One able to contribute in attack, rather than being a holding midfielder at Leeds.
During 23-24 at Dusseldorf, Tanaka had a hand in 12 goals. He has eight Japan goals, including that goal against Spain in the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Tanaka can play further forward – possibly even as a no.10.
But injuries to Ethan Ampadu and Ilia Gruev during the 2024-25 season saw Tanaka play deeper. Tanaka has recently said he had a chat with Farke about playing so defensively, eventually finishing on five goals.
Clearly, Tanaka is so much more than just a defensive screen – like Ilia Gruev. To unlock his potential, The Whites need Ethan Ampadu alongside Tanaka 100% of the time, rather than covering at centre-back.
Bijol’s arrival allows Ampadu to remain in midfield. Having the quality of Ampadu in defensive midfield will unlock Tanaka and give him more license to contribute to the final third, which is his natural style.
When can we expect Jaka Bijol to be announced?
Well, Bijol’s deal is done. Fabrizio Romano reiterated as much on Saturday, using his trademark ‘Here We Go’ and confirmation that a deal is done. But fans are starting to worry about the lack of announcement.
However, Beren Cross also posted an update on Saturday. The Athletic reporter reassured fans that he has been told there is nothing to worry about and it is simply formalities being completed at the final stage.
Bijol is expected to sign a long-term contract at Leeds that will either take him to 2029 or 2030, and is likely to be one of the club’s top earners – without completely breaking the wage structure at Elland Road.
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