Leeds United are making a strong push to sign Lecce striker Nikola Krstovic but face competition from Serie A giants Roma and Milan.
Leeds Sign Bijol from Udinese
Udinese center-back Jaka Bijol has completed a medical with Leeds, with a €22 million deal (including bonuses) now all but finalized.
The newly promoted Premier League side beat late interest from Newcastle United, who reportedly made a last-ditch attempt to hijack the deal and offer Bijol Champions League football. But the 26-year-old had already agreed personal terms with Leeds and stuck to his word.
Bijol, who joined Udinese in 2022 for just €4 million, established himself as a key figure in Serie A thanks to his aerial dominance and reading of the game. His arrival at Elland Road will significantly bolster Daniel Farke’s defensive options heading into the 2025–26 campaign.
Udinese wasted no time in sourcing a replacement, as they look set to sign Nicolo Bertola on a free from Spezia, locking in the Italy U21 center-back on a four-year deal. Here you can read more about the Bijol Leeds transfer and Udinese’s plan for Bertola.
Krstovic Transfer News
While Bijol’s move is nearly done, Leeds have also submitted a “significant” offer for Lecce striker Nikola Krstovic, according to Gianluca Di Marzio and Sky Sport Italia.
The Montenegrin forward is also being tracked by Roma, with La Gazzetta dello Sport suggesting the Giallorossi value him at around £25.6 million. AC Milan has also shown interest, but no formal offer has emerged from the Rossoneri.
Leeds are keen to avoid a drawn-out battle and reportedly intend to blow Roma out of the water by surpassing Lecce’s valuation with an aggressive bid in the coming days.
According to reports in Italy, Krstovic is open to a Premier League move but wants to evaluate all offers before deciding.
Leeds will hope the promise of a central role, top-flight football, and a long-term project will be enough to convince him to snub Serie A rivals.
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Krstovic enjoyed a breakout year in Serie A, notching 11 goals and five assists in all competitions. His impact was vital in helping Lecce secure top-flight survival, and his consistent performances have quickly made him one of the most sought-after strikers in Italy.
