Leeds United’s pursuit of Udinese defender Jaka Bijol is at an advanced stage with the two clubs locked in talks to strike a deal for the giant centre-back, in what will be Leeds’ first addition.
Bijol, 26, has starred for Udinese over the last three seasons. He has become renowned in Serie A for his towering performances at centre-back and is regarded as one of the best defenders in the air in Italy.
Leeds have been linked with the 63-time Slovenia international for a couple of weeks, now. The Whites certainly need additions at centre-back with Max Wober claiming Leeds have told him he will be sold.
Bijol has now said yes to joining Leeds this summer. But Leeds and Udinese are yet to come to an agreement on a fee, with The Whites seeing their first offer for Bijol turned down by the Serie A side.
The difference separating Leeds’ first offer and Udinese’s price tag
On Thursday, Sky Italy reporter Gianluca Di Marzio gave the latest on Leeds’ move for Bijol. He reported that Leeds had seen a first bid for Bijol rejected, but that talks were progressing nicely ahead of a deal.
According to a report from The Express in the last 24 hours, Leeds’ first offer was worth a total of £14.5m. However, that is £6.5m below the amount Udinese want if they are to sell their star defender this summer.
It seems then, that a move to land Bijol will be a lot more expensive than what Beren Cross first reported – suggesting a fee between £12.7m and £15.2m would get the deal done. Compromise is required.
Udinese move shows they are planning for life without Jaka Bijol
Clearly, Udinese know they are about to lose their star defender and are planning accordingly. According to reports in Italy, Udinese have already identified two potential replacements to replace the defender.
Indeed, they are targeting two players from Ethan Ampadu’s old side Spezia. Uncapped Polish defender Przemyslaw Wisniewski and Italian ace Nicolo Bertola are expected to be targeted if Bijol does leave.
But the fact Udinese are considering replacements shows there is a confidence and an expectation that Bijol leaves, which will give Leeds confidence of getting a deal done for the Slovenia ace this summer.
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