On Wednesday, we discussed allegations from Italy that Nottingham Forest are interested in signing Udinese’s Jaka Bijol this summer.
Messaggero Veneto confirmed the Reds’ interest in the centre-back earlier today, adding that they are the latest club to make an approach to sign him.
It was also said that the Serie A club is aware of Nottingham Forest, Bologna, Atalanta, VfL Wolfsburg, and VfB Stuttgart’s interest in the defender and has set a €16-17 million asking price for him.
Udinese technical director Nani has encouraged Nuno Espírito Santo’s team and other teams interested in the 25-year-old to consider his departure this summer.
Nani told Radio Sportiva, as cited by Tutto Udinese, that the Slovenia international is on the radar of Premier League clubs, although he did not identify which ones.
“I’d be surprised if he wasn’t valued by Inter and other major clubs. Until his elimination, he was the Euros’ finest defender. He is a complete defensive leader, and I don’t see any severe amnesia; mistakes happen to everyone,” he remarked.
“He drew the interest of numerous clubs, particularly in the Premier League. It’s vital to us, and we want to keep him, but we need to be ready. If an offer comes in, we will discuss it.”
Earlier this month, Gazzetta dello Sport reported that Aston Villa had made contact with the defender and appeared to be set to clinch the transfer in the coming weeks.
Bijol played 25 games for the Italian club last season.