Nottingham Forest could face a fight to prise away Tyler Adams, if they pursue their interest in the midfielder.
The Reds have been linked with a summer swoop for the Leeds United man as they look to bolster their squad ahead of the upcoming Premier League season. There was already plenty of competition for his signature, with West Ham United, Aston Villa, Brighton and Hove Albion and Everton also said to be eyeing him up.
A £40 million price tag has previously been mooted. However, it seems there is no guarantee the Whites are prepared to let him go.
According to the Yorkshire Evening Post, incoming owners 49ers Enterprises see Adams as a “key part of their plans” as Leeds try to bounce back to the top-flight at the first attempt. Nevertheless, there is an acceptance they may need to persuade the player that he should stay put amid the offers which are expected to come his way.
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The USA international made the switch to Elland Road from RB Leipzig last summer in a reported £20m deal. He made 26 appearances last term as Leeds suffered relegation, being absent for the run-in due to a hamstring problem.
He is said to have reported back for pre-season but has not been involved in full sessions as he continues his recovery. The 24-year-old is expected to be fit for the start of the Championship campaign next month, however.
Forest will assess their options in the centre of the pitch this summer as they aim to make progress in the Premier League. Jack Colback has already been released at the end of his contract, while Cafu - who was not part of the 25-man squad - has also been let go.
Jonjo Shelvey is likely to depart as the Reds try to trim numbers, and there is also a question mark over the future of Remo Freuler. A decision will have to be made, too, over whether Lewis O’Brien has a part to play next term as his DC United loan spell comes to an end.