Gianluca Nani, Udinese’s director, has revealed that one of the Italian club’s players has ‘attracted attention’ amid reports of interest from Nottingham Forest.
Nottingham Forest have been relatively quiet in the transfer market this summer, with the signings of midfielder Elliot Anderson and goalkeeper Carlos Miguel being the only significant arrivals.
Nuno Espirito Santo has a tough job on his hands to keep Forest out of relegation trouble after the East Midlands club came close to tumbling out of the Premier League last season.
In terms of outgoings, defender Murillo is garnering interest from some of the Premier League’s finest clubs, including Manchester United and Liverpool, but an inbound transfer could be on the way.
Udinese director on ‘interest’ from the Premier League
Gianluca Nani, Udinese’s technical director, has acknowledged the Premier League’s interest in Jaka Bijol.
Bijol is a 25-year-old Slovenian centre-back who had a strong season with the Italian club, prompting reports of interest from Forest.
He played 24 Serie A games for the club last season and, according to FBREF, rated extremely high in clearances and aerial duels won, indicating that the Slovenian is powerful in the air.
Udinese are apparently looking for between £11-13 million for the 25-year-old, and club director Nani has confirmed that interest has come from England.
“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 perfect defensive commander, and I don’t see any severe amnesia; mistakes happen to everyone,” he told Tutto Udinese.
“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.”
Inter Milan is reportedly in discussion with Bijol.
After a successful tournament at Euro 2024, Inter Milan has expressed interest.
According to FCInterNews, the Italian giants’ scouts have been watching Bijol as a potential successor for Stefan De Vrij.
According to Messaggero Veneto, an Italian newspaper, Nottingham Forest has made an approach for the defender, but the Reds may need to act quickly if they want to get the Slovenian defender this summer, with other clubs interested.
