Leeds United Plotting Third Summer Signing After Bijol Arrival
Leeds United’s summer recruitment drive is gathering pace, with a third signing already being lined up following the official arrival of Slovenian international Jaka Bijol from Udinese.
Daniel Farke’s side have moved quickly in the early stages of the window, having also sealed a deal for German forward Lukas Nmecha, who arrived from Wolfsburg. The pair represent the opening moves in what promises to be a significant summer of rebuilding at Elland Road as Leeds aim to strengthen key areas ahead of a promotion push in the 2025/26 campaign.
Bijol, 25, has been confirmed as a Leeds player following protracted negotiations with Serie A side Udinese. The centre-back arrives for a reported fee of £15 million and is expected to form a cornerstone of Farke’s defensive setup. A towering presence at 6’4” and capable of playing in both central defence and defensive midfield, Bijol brings with him leadership qualities and top-level experience from Italy and international football with Slovenia.
His arrival comes as Leeds look to replace the outgoing Joe Rodon, who has returned to Tottenham Hotspur following a season-long loan. The club had explored a permanent deal for Rodon but ultimately turned their attention to Bijol after failing to agree terms with Spurs.
The announcement of Bijol’s signing was met with enthusiasm from Leeds supporters and signals the club’s intent to back Farke, who was retained as head coach following last season’s near miss in the Championship play-offs.
Sources close to the club suggest a third signing is now imminent, with discussions already well underway for another key target. Leeds are believed to be prioritising further depth in midfield and potentially at full-back, though names remain under wraps as negotiations continue.
Sporting director Gretar Steinsson has been instrumental in shaping the club’s summer recruitment strategy, working closely with Farke to identify players with the physicality, technical ability, and mental resilience required for the demands of a 46-game Championship campaign.
The early arrivals of Nmecha and Bijol indicate a clear attempt to complete business swiftly, giving Farke the maximum possible time to integrate his new recruits before the start of pre-season. Leeds are understood to be wary of the drawn-out negotiations that hampered their activity in previous windows and are instead taking a more proactive stance this summer.
As for Nmecha, his arrival adds competition up front and reflects Leeds’ desire to sharpen their attacking options. The 25-year-old former Manchester City academy graduate had struggled with injuries in Germany but is viewed by the club as a player capable of reigniting his form in English football.
With the window still in its early stages, Leeds supporters will be encouraged by the speed and intent of their club’s actions. A third arrival now looks set to follow in short order — and if the opening signings are anything to go by, it may not be the last.