Premier League newcomers Nottingham Forest have made an opening bid for highly-rated Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar after they opened talks with his agent.
Steve Cooper's side are making a real splash in this summer's transfer window.
In total, they have added 12 players to their ranks, including former Manchester United playmaker Jesse Lingard, Neco Williams, Moussa Niakhate and record signing Taiwo Awoniyi, who arrived from Union Berlin for £17.5 million.
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They have spent just over £85 million so far, according to Transfermarkt, and more arrivals are expected in the coming weeks.
Forest, who fell to a 2-0 defeat in their opening day clash against Newcastle, have brought in several defenders in this window, including former Troyes full-back Giulian Biancone and Omar Richards from Bayern Munich.
And now they are keen on improving their midfield with the addition of France international Houssem Aouar.
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In fact, Forest are the ‘most concrete possibility’ for the 24-year-old, according to French publication L'Equipe, who suggest the Premier League outfit have 'made a first offer' for the former Arsenal transfer target.
It is believed Aouar is 'not closed to the idea' of joining a team in England's top flight and discussions should continue in the coming days.
Leicester City are also reportedly interested in the midfielder.
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So how much will a team pay for Aouar? Lyon could consider his departure if they receive a bid of around €15m [£12.7m] for the player, say Get French Football News – a potential bargain of the summer.
La Liga side Real Betis are also keen to sign the talented midfielder but the Spanish club would need to sell players first.
Aouar currently has one year remaining on his current deal at Ligue 1 side Lyon.
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Thoughts on Forest making a move to sign the French midfielder? Would it be a good addition? Let us know in the comments.
Topics: Houssem Aouar, Nottingham Forest, Transfers, Premier League
Jack Kenmare