Adam Pope suggests the Leeds United player who could leave after signing Jaka Bijol in his ‘prime’

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Jaka Bijol’s arrival has been warmly welcomed by the Leeds United fanbase as the second signing of the summer is confirmed.

The Slovenian centre-back arrives with plenty of promise as Bijol embarks on a new journey with Leeds.

With Bijol signing for £15m, the 49ers have had plenty of praise for the structure of the deal.

The 26-year-old will no doubt be hoisted into the starting lineup from the get-go, but Bijol won’t be available for the Everton opener due to suspension.

His start will be delayed, but he will no doubt be an important figure around the dressing room, and it could end up forcing a player out, which is completely out of Daniel Farke’s hands.

Leeds United player could leave after Jaka Bijol signing

The defender looks to be an astute piece of business and seems right at home, as Bijol likes Elland Road’s closeness.

His arrival could turn out to be season-defining in terms of improving the team, as the Slovenian seems tipped to start next to Joe Rodon.

But this might spell trouble for the fellow centre-backs at the club, as there is a sacrifice Farke might have to make by incorporating the defender into his lineup.

Speaking to BBC Sport West Yorkshire, journalist Adam Pope has weighed in on how he thinks Bijol’s status in the squad will work, and it’s suggested Pascal Struijk is someone who could remarkably leave the club.

“I think he fits right into the physicality that the club believe they need to stay up in the Premier League,” Pope said.

“I would like to think he will be an addition to what’s already a big enough backline.

“(Pascal) Struijk has been injured for two seasons in a row now. It might be that the club has to let a player go to help with the financial parameters that are around but, right now, he is definitely an addition. He is an experienced one as well.

“He is 26 years old so they have signed him in his prime. He has made more than 50 appearances for Slovenia, having made his debut as a teenager. He has played in Germany and Russia and Italy, so that’s pretty good pedigree.”

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Bijol forcing Struijk out could help Leeds’ PSR

Unfortunately, with competition comes potential sales, and that could be the destiny of Struijk.

There is no doubt about the Dutchman’s ability, as seven years at the club has shown his quality, and he has provided in the big moments.

But taking into account his injury record and fitness concerns, when looking between Rodon, Ethan Ampadu, and himself, if a sale has to be made, it’s going to be him.

Although this would be an extreme loss, judging by Mateo Joseph’s potential sale, Leeds could benefit highly from PSR if Struijk left.

Pure profit would certainly count for Struijk after joining on a free transfer from Ajax and coming through the academy, with a £25m price tag quoted previously.

It’s a real shame if it did come to an occurrence, but to have a player of Bijol’s ability is clearly needed in the squad.

Struijk remains one of the longest-serving players within the squad, and with Illan Meslier looking likely to leave as well, it’s set to be a ruthless summer for the 49ers.