Nottingham Forest are said to be back in talks over a move for Mainz defender Moussa Niakhate.
The Reds have made one summer signing so far, in forward Taiwo Awoniyi, with goalkeeper Dean Henderson expected to become their second new arrival by the end of this week. But plenty more business is on the cards as head coach Steve Cooper looks to bolster his squad for the step up to the Premier League.
Forest’s pursuit of Niakhate previously hit a stumbling block, with the two sides apart in their valuation of the player. Reports claimed there was no longer a “willingness to talk” from the German side, having received a “ridiculous” first offer - of less than €10 million (roughly £8.6m) - for the 26-year-old.
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However, The Athletic report the former France Under-21 international could “soon” be added to the Reds’ ranks. It is said an outlay of “upwards of £10m” could secure his services.
Forest want to strengthen their options at centre-back as they prepare for the upcoming season. They currently have Joe Worrall, Scott McKenna and Steve Cook on their books, as well as youngsters Loic Mbe Soh and Jonathan Panzo, who have both found it tough to get a look-in.
Club captain Niakhate has been with Mainz since 2018, having made the move from Metz. Last season, he made 33 appearances and scored four goals. He has 12 months left to run on his contract and was linked with Everton, Newcastle United and West Ham United earlier in the year.
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