Leeds United has made one thing unequivocally clear regarding Jaka Bijol: any club hoping to acquire the Slovenian international will face a hefty price tag. The defender has rapidly become indispensable to manager Daniel Farke, transforming into a bedrock of the team’s defensive line.
Bijol’s arrival last summer, for a fee that now appears remarkably low, signaled a turning point. Originally costing around £15 million from Udinese, his value has surged dramatically alongside Leeds’ climb towards Premier League safety.
Observers describe Bijol as a commanding presence, a “monster at centre-back” who thrives on the physical demands of the English game. His aerial dominance and relentless tackling have quickly established him as a formidable opponent.
The club’s resolve to retain Bijol is particularly strong should they secure their Premier League status. The focus is now on building around key players, and Bijol is firmly at the heart of those plans.
Rumors are swirling, however, with Liverpool reportedly expressing strong interest. Manager Arne Slot is actively seeking defensive reinforcements, especially given uncertainty surrounding existing players and a missed opportunity to sign another target.
Bijol’s seamless adaptation to the Premier League has caught the eye of several top clubs. His standout performances against challenging opponents like Chelsea and Manchester United demonstrate his ability to perform under pressure.
Leeds, however, holds a significant advantage in any potential negotiations. Bijol’s contract, extending until 2030, provides the club with considerable leverage. Any suitor will need to present a truly substantial offer to even begin discussions.
Liverpool, while potentially viewing Bijol as a viable alternative, will likely need to authorize a significant transfer fee to persuade Leeds to consider parting with their defensive cornerstone. The message is clear: Bijol is not available on the cheap.
