Nottingham Forest could lose out in the race for two Brazilian left-backs this summer.
The Reds have been consistently linked with a move to bring Renan Lodi back after his successful loan spell last season, however, Benfica have emerged as the leading contenders with various outlets casting doubt on Forest's chances.
Lodi's days at Atletico Madrid look numbered with the player not in Diego Simeone's plans. Forest could have signed the Brazil international for around £25m during his loan spell but the deadline for a deal passed as they battled relegation.
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The Reds would like to lower that price, but other clubs are keen and footballtransfers.com say the play wants to go to a Champions League club to strengthen his international claims.
Mundo Deportivo say an Italian side is also keen with Lodi keen to stay in Europe. They do however add that five Brazilian teams - Corinthians , Santos, Palmeiras, Flamengo and Atlético Paranaense - would like to sign him.
Forest have been linked with one of Lodi's countrymen as an alternative in Monza left-back Carlos Augusto. He helped Monza finish 11th in Serie A last season and that has attracted the interest of Inter Milan.
Transfers expert Fabrizio Romano says Forest admire the player but beaten Champions League finalists Inter are leading the chase.
Forest do already have options at left-back. Omar Richards was signed from Bayern Munich last season to play the position but missed the whole season through injury.
Harry Toffolo was signed from Huddersfield at the same time and proved a capable deputy although he was ultimately overshadowed by Lodi, who won over fans after a slow start which saw him miss out on a place in Brazil's World Cup squad.
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