US-owned Leeds signs Slovenia defender Jaka Bijol for return to Premier League

By Canadian Press on June 24, 2025.

LONDON (AP) — Newly promoted Premier League club Leeds added Slovenia standout Jaka Bijol to its defense ahead of the second-tier champion’s return to the top level.

Leeds said the 26-year-old center back signed a five-year deal. The transfer fee paid to Udinese was reportedly around 15 million pounds ($20 million).

Bijol has played 63 times for Slovenia, including all four games at the 2024 European Championship.

He helped shut out the England attack led by Harry Kane and Portugal’s attack led by Cristiano Ronaldo in 0-0 draws. Slovenia was eliminated by Portugal in the round of 16 after a penalty shootout.

Slovenia starts a 2026 World Cup qualifying group in September in a competitive group with Switzerland, Sweden and Kosovo.

Leeds, whose United States ownership group is led by 49ers Enterprises, starts its Premier League season hosting Everton on Aug. 18.

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The Associated Press