Nottingham Forest reportedly become the latest club to show an interest in signing Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar.
Despite being linked with a move from his long-term club for a number of transfer windows, Aouar has remained at the Groupama Stadium.
In total, the 24-year-old has contributed 40 goals and 35 assists from his 216 appearances in all competitions.
However, with less than a year remaining on his contract, speculation persists that the France international will finally be on the move this summer.
According to Foot Mercato, Forest are admirers of Aouar and are contemplating whether to put forward an official approach.
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The recently-promoted Premier League side are known to be keen on strengthening in the middle of the pitch before the start of September.
That need was stepped up after their 2-0 reverse at Newcastle United on Saturday, Steve Cooper having previously insisted that there would be more arrivals than outgoings at the City Ground.
Despite Forest emerging as admirers, the report suggests that other contenders for Aouar's signature may spark into life with a bid of their own.
Forest's East Midlands rivals Leicester City allegedly see Aouar as an alternative to James Maddison, who has been linked with Newcastle United.
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However, should the Foxes decide to cash in on Wesley Fofana, Brendan Rodgers would have the financial firepower to move for Aouar and a straight replacement for the centre-back.
Real Betis were also linked with Aouar soon after the end of last season, but the Spanish side have failed to finalise a deal since emerging as a potential destination.
While the possibility remains that Aouar could extend his contract past the end of 2022-23, it appears unlikely given Lyon's lack of European football.
Aouar started Lyon's 2-1 victory over AC Ajaccio before being withdrawn shortly after the half-hour mark.
Darren Plant
