Lyon striker Georges Mikautadze has emerged as a potential transfer target for Nottingham Forest.
Bolstering their attacking resources is a priority for the Reds this summer ahead of the new season. They are set to add Igor Jesus to their ranks, with the Brazilian expected to complete a move from Botafogo now their participation in the Club World Cup is over.
But it seems Forest might not stop there when it comes to sourcing additional firepower. They are said to be among the latest clubs to ‘make a move’ for Mikautadze.
According to TEAMtalk, the Reds are keeping close tabs on the Georgia international after he bagged 11 goals in Ligue 1 last season. However, they are not the only ones keen on snapping him up.
‘Strong’ interest in the 24-year-old is said to be growing, with Premier League, Serie A and Bundesliga suitors all with eyes on him. Roma and Eintracht Frankfurt have also been identified as admirers, in addition to Forest.
Lyon could be forced into selling players after their relegation to Ligue 2 - due to their financial situation - was announced earlier this week. The French club have said they will appeal the decision but several players have uncertain futures.
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Mikautadze has three years remaining on his contract and could be offloaded this summer. Lyon reportedly want a minimum of €25 million (£21m) for the front man.
Official offers are yet to be lodged but Lyon are ‘standing firm’ on the player’s valuation. TEAMtalk suggest more clubs are expected to enter the race for his signature in the near future.
Mikautadze signed for Lyon from Metz 12 months ago. His move came on the back of his Golden Boot success at last year’s Euros, where he shared the accolade with fellow three-goal contributors Harry Kane (England), Dani Olmo (Spain), Cody Gakpo (Netherlands), Ivan Schranz (Slovakia) and Jamal Musiala (Germany).
A right-footed centre forward, Mikautadze has also played on the left wing in the past. Such flexibility would be valuable for Reds head coach Nuno Espirito Santo, who favours versatile players.
Chris Wood finished as top scorer in the Garibaldi last season. Forest also have Taiwo Awoniyi on the books, although the Nigeria international is recovering from a serious abdominal injury sustained in last month’s 2-2 draw with Leicester City.
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