Newcastle United look to hijack Leeds target Jaka Bijol | OneFootball

Newcastle United are planning a late swoop for Udinese defender Jaka Bijol, who is Leeds United’s priority target (h/t journalist Sacha Tavolieri).

The newly-promoted Premier League club are leading the race after agreeing personal terms with the Slovenian defender on a four-year deal until 2029.

However, Leeds are struggling to reach a final agreement with the Serie A outfit.

Udinese are demanding a package worth €25 million as part of the fee will go to Bijol’s former club CSKA Moscow due to a sell-on clause.

Newcastle are looking to pounce on the situation and foil Leeds’ plans to sign the highly talented defender.

Adding a centre-back to the squad is a priority as Newcastle strive to fortify an ageing backline.

Fabian Schar and Dan Burn formed a solid partnership last season, helping the Magpies break their long-running trophy drought by winning the League Cup.

But the duo can’t be burdened with more workload in the upcoming season, and Bijol could be a useful option for manager Eddie Howe.

Bijol has steadily grown into one of the most formidable centre-backs in Serie A since joining Udinese in 2022.

The 26-year-old has made 95 appearances for the Italian outfit and earned 65 caps for Slovenia.

He drew attention with his impressive performances against England and Denmark in the 2024 European Championship.

Bijol’s profile is well-suited to the fast-paced and physical nature of the Premier League.

The Magpies have also been monitoring Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi as a potential summer target.