Leeds secures Slovenian defender Bijol for Premier League push

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    LONDON — Leeds United has made a significant addition to its defense as it gears up for its Premier League return, securing Slovenia’s standout center-back, Jaka Bijol. The club, fresh off its promotion as champions of the second-tier league, announced the acquisition of Bijol on a five-year contract. The transfer from Udinese involved a fee reported to be approximately 15 million pounds ($20 million).

    The 26-year-old Bijol brings substantial international experience to Leeds, having represented Slovenia in 63 matches, including all encounters during the 2024 European Championship. His defensive prowess was evident when he contributed to Slovenia’s clean sheets against England and Portugal, both games ending 0-0. Slovenia, however, was later ousted by Portugal in the competition’s round of 16 following a penalty shootout.

    Slovenia is now focused on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers set to begin in September. The team is part of a challenging group that includes Switzerland, Sweden, and Kosovo. Meanwhile, Leeds is preparing to open its Premier League campaign against Everton at home on August 18. The club, backed by its US ownership group spearheaded by 49ers Enterprises, aims to make a strong impression in the top tier.

    In other news, Crystal Palace, the FA Cup winners, is set to welcome Argentine goalkeeper Walter Benítez. The 32-year-old will join following the expiration of his contract with Dutch champions PSV Eindhoven. Benítez, who is ready to compete for the starting goalkeeper berth with English international Dean Henderson, is trading another season of Champions League football with PSV—where the team reached the round of 16—for a chance at Europa League play with Palace.

    Palace’s participation in the Europa League awaits UEFA’s confirmation due to complex ownership rules. These rules are pertinent when it comes to owners who have stakes in multiple clubs participating in the same competition. Recently, Palace declared that American businessman John Textor’s 43% shareholding—Textor also has interests in Europa League team Lyon—is being sold to Woody Johnson. Johnson, known as the owner of the New York Jets, previously served as the U.S. ambassador to Britain.