Nottingham Forest still in mix for Ligue 1 star, could yet pull off deal despite previous rejection

Nottingham Forest are still in touch with Lyon, and could reportedly have a chance of pulling off a deal for Houssem Aouar.

Aouar has been linked with a move to the Premier League for some time. Indeed, Arsenal have been credited with an interest in the Frenchman for years.

However, it is Forest who have been most heavily linked of late. The Reds had an offer for the star rejected by Lyon earlier in August.

A report from ESPN states that offer was of €10million (£8.5million) and would be paid in six instalments. Clearly, Lyon were not happy with that structure, hence their rejection.

However, the same report also states that Forest are still in the mix to sign the midfielder. They are apparently still in touch with the French club, but have some work to do to complete a deal.

Lyon are asking for €15million (£12.5million) from Forest in order to let Aouar go.

That fee seems fair, given Aouar is a quality player, but with only one year left on his deal.

However, Forest may have to think long and hard about how they plan to pay for the transfer.

Paying in small instalments may not be an option, given Lyon rejected their previous offer with that structure.

It remains to be seen whether Forest will come up with another offer for the Frenchman. Given they are still in contact with Lyon, there is a good chance they will do so.

Aouar a top addition for Forest

Forest have done well on their return to the Premier League so far. Indeed, the Reds have picked up four points, and currently sit 10th in the table.

While that is a good start, adding a player of Aouar’s quality could elevate them further. The box-to-box midfielder has contributed to 75 goals in 216 games during his career.

Adding him to a midfield containing Jesse Lingard would no doubt up the quality, and allow Forest to outplay sides.

On top of that, he would add to the depth in the middle of the park. That will be an important factor, given five substitutes are allowed this season.