“Fans Go Wild as Akinfeev and Deulofeu React to Leeds United’s £15m Transfer Masterstroke”
Leeds United Seal Signing of Jaka Bijol from Udinese on Long-Term Deal
Leeds United have officially completed the signing of Slovenian defender Jaka Bijol from Serie A club Udinese, with the 25-year-old putting pen to paper on a deal that runs until the summer of 2030.
The move comes after several days of anticipation among Leeds supporters, who have been waiting nearly a week for confirmation. Bijol reportedly passed his medical with the club last Wednesday, but the formal announcement was delayed.
Originally expected to sign a deal through 2029, Bijol has instead agreed to a five-year contract, extending his stay at Elland Road through 2030.
Leeds are believed to have paid around £15 million for the centre-back—significantly lower than the £18.75 million (€22m) figure previously reported by transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Sky Sports has described the £15m fee as a bargain for one of Serie A’s standout defenders.
Bijol Bids Farewell to Udinese Fans with Emotional Message
Having spent three seasons with Udinese and made close to 100 appearances, Bijol had become a key figure for the Italian club.
His solid performances earned him widespread respect and a regular spot with the Slovenian national team, for whom he has 63 caps.
Following the announcement of his move to Leeds, Bijol took to Instagram on Monday evening to express his gratitude to Udinese and its fans.
“I want to thank you all for the incredible three years I’ve spent in this beautiful city and at this wonderful club,” he wrote. “There have been ups and downs, but I’m grateful for every experience.
Thank you for your trust, and special thanks to my teammates and the staff. I’ve always given my all for the black and white shirt and I’ll always appreciate the support.”
Well-Wishes from Akinfeev and Deulofeu
Bijol, who previously played in Russia for CSKA Moscow, received messages of support from several notable figures following the announcement. Legendary CSKA goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev simply commented, “Yaka! Top. Good luck.”
Gerard Deulofeu, the former Watford and Everton forward and current Udinese player, also responded to Bijol’s farewell message.
Meanwhile, Slovenian teammate Sandi Lovric, who had earlier expressed hope that Bijol would stay in Italy, also acknowledged the transfer with a comment on Instagram.
Leeds’ acquisition of the 6ft 4in defender has been widely praised, with the club reportedly fending off competition from Premier League side Newcastle United and top Serie A teams to secure his signature.
