Nottingham Forest's recruitment has gathered momentum in recent days as Oliver Glasner continues putting his own stamp on the squad.
The Reds have been linked with Sevilla left-back Joaquin Oso, while interest in Celtic forward Daizen Maeda and Irish youngster Cathal McCarthy underlines the club's desire to add quality across several positions.
Atletico Madrid's Thiago Almada in action with Sevilla's Oso
Forest have also scoured for midfield reinforcements following Elliot Anderson's record-breaking departure.
Now, Forest appear to have secured one of the most eye-catching free transfers of the summer.
Nottingham Forest set to sign Xaver Schlager after RB Leipzig exit
According to David Ornstein, Nottingham Forest are set to sign former RB Leipzig midfielder Xaver Schlager after the Austria international turned down a contract extension in Germany as well as interest from several leading European clubs.
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Ornstein adds that the 28-year-old has agreed a two-year contract with the option of a further season and is due to undergo his medical this week.
For Forest, this represents a very different type of signing.
Why Nottingham Forest have signed Xaver Schlager
Schlager arrives with more than a decade of top-level experience after spells with RB Salzburg, Wolfsburg and RB Leipzig, where he established himself as one of the Bundesliga's most reliable midfield operators when fit.
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That experience could prove invaluable.
Comfortable winning possession, protecting the defence and moving the ball quickly through midfield, he has built his reputation on consistency rather than spectacular moments.
His leadership is another major attraction.
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Having represented Austria more than 50 times, Schlager has become one of his country's senior figures and recently enhanced his reputation with a series of impressive performances at the World Cup.
That tournament appears to have increased interest in his signature, making Forest's ability to win the race particularly significant.
In a market where experienced international midfielders often command huge fees, securing one without paying a penny bar his wages and agents fees represents excellent value.
If Ornstein's report proves accurate, Schlager's choice suggests Forest's project under Glasner is becoming increasingly attractive to established internationals as well as emerging talent.
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[Nottingham Forest in pole position to sign "fast" player after getting reply to first bid](https://www.footballfancast.com/nottingham-forest-transfers-givairo-read-update/ "Nottingham Forest in pole position to sign "fast" player after getting reply to first bid")
They're his 'only' serious suitor.