Owners Godolphin are mulling over paying £75,000 to bolster their Epsom Derby squad.
The top thoroughbred operation chase a third win in five years in the big race on June 4. Ruler of Dubai Sheikh Mohammed's blue silks were carried to victory by Masar in 2018 and Adayar 12 months ago.
Nations Pride, a recent winner of a Listed contest, could become the third runner in the well-known colours. Connections have to decide whether to pay the five-figure sum to supplement him into the line-up.
Last year's Cazoo Derby winner finished second in his trial at Lingfield, the same position obtained by the team's confirmed participant Walk Of Stars. Progressive colt Nahanni is their second hope for the Classic, worth £850,650 to the first-placed horse.
Nations Pride came through a piece of work on Wednesday morning with flying colours.
"Nations Pride has impressed in his work at Moulton Paddocks this morning with William Buick on board," trainer Charlie Appleby said. "A decision will be made in the next 48 hours whether he will be supplemented for the Derby."
Coral spokesman David Stevens said: "Although the decision on whether or not Nations Pride will be added to the Cazoo Derby field has yet to be made, he was the subject of a glowing report from connections following his gallop at home. Punters clearly believe he will lead Godolphin's Epsom challenge."
Appleby is on a sparkling run in Group 1 events from the early part of the Flat season, taking the English, French and Irish 2,000 Guineas with different colts. The strength in depth of his team will also be advertised at the Derby meeting, on the Friday and Saturday of the Queen's Platinum Jubilee weekend.
Manobo is the early favourite for the Dahlbury Coronation Cup, the highlight of the opening card.
Desert Crown, trained by Sir Michael Stoute, heads the Derby market on the back of his impressive Dante score. The son of Nathanial will attempt to join the Newmarket handler’s roll of honour, made up of Shergar (1981), Shahrastani (1986), Kris Kin (2003), North Light (2004) and Workforce (2010).
Stoute, celebrating his 50th year in the business, said the 9-4 shot has had one piece of work since his recent racecourse appearance.
“He wouldn’t have to come on too much but it was a good performance that puts him in the reckoning," he added. He did surprise me (at York). If you win the Dante you don’t have to improve much to win The Derby. He is a nice athlete and has a lovely temperament."
