Nottingham Forest have reportedly submitted a £34 million bid to sign highly-rated winger Assane Diao from Italian side Como 1907 this summer.
The 19-year-old has been on Forest’s radar for over a year, with speculation about a potential move dating back to last season. Diao initially made the switch from Real Betis to Como in January for €11.5 million (£9.8m) after limited playing opportunities in Spain, but his time in Italy might be short-lived.
According to reports from Spanish outlet Fichajes, Forest have now made a formal €40 million (£34m) offer to secure the Senegal international. The substantial bid could prove tempting for Como, though the club may want more time to assess Diao’s impact before making a final decision.
Diao has impressed since arriving in Serie A, netting six goals and providing one assist in 14 appearances. Widely regarded as one of Europe’s top young talents, his performances have attracted interest from several major clubs.
Should a deal go through, Real Betis stand to benefit financially as well. The Spanish side is entitled to 20 percent of any future transfer fee, which could earn them around €8 million (£6.8m) from this move.
Manchester United are also said to be monitoring the player, while Dutch side Feyenoord — who had a bid turned down last summer — may reignite their interest. Additionally, reports from Tuttomercatoweb indicate Juventus are also in the mix, although their initial interest was reportedly tied to hopes that Forest would pursue a €40 million move for striker Dusan Vlahovic — a move Forest are not currently pursuing.
Last summer, Forest bolstered their wide options by signing wingers Ramon Sosa and Jota Silva to compete with Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga. However, both new additions have experienced mixed form as they continue adjusting to life in the Premier League.
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