Nottingham Forest are stepping up their efforts to sign another defender following the departure of Moussa Niakhate.
Earlier this month, the Senegalese defender was offloaded to Lyon as the Reds attempted to follow PSR’s latest cycle.
The £27m fee kept Forest over the line and should ensure they avoid a points deduction for next season.
Now Forest need to ensure their squad is in the best possible shape for next season, so new signings will be on the lookout.
Elliot Anderson has already signed from Newcastle and Eric da Silva Moreira has also been given a Forest squad number.
Now Forest will be on the lookout for a new defender and one club appears to be aware of an interest in one of their star players.
Udinese are aware of Nottingham Forest’s interest in Jako Bijola
It looks exciting from Forest’s perspective, with Alan Shearer describing Bijol as “outstanding” for his efforts as Slovenia lost to Portugal on penalties at Euro 2024.
Now Udinese director Nani has discussed the interest in his player and expects some offers to come.
He told Radio Sportiva: “I’d be surprised if Inter and other big teams didn’t value him. Until he got banned, he proved to be the best defender in the European Championship. He’s a complete defensive leader, you don’t see any serious memory loss, mistakes are made they happen to everyone.
“He has attracted the attention of many clubs, especially in the Premier League. It is important for us and we would like to keep him, but we have to be ready. If an offer comes, we will discuss it.”
Bijol could be an exciting signing for Forest
Good thing Forest has clearly noticed the talent on display on the EP.
Bijol can be a useful addition to the ranks and would certainly bring a lot of experience as well as the possibility of advancement.
After losing Niakhate, it is vital that Forest bring another centre-back to the club and Bijol could be available for around £17m.
The 25-year-old has 53 appearances for his country, while the Slovenian defender has made 58 appearances for Serie A side Udinese.
These comments from the owner are quite promising and hopefully something will move with this transfer.