According to Marca, Nottingham Forest are in pole position ahead of Swansea City and Getafe to complete the signing of Almeria’s Mathieu Peybernes.
The French defender has been heavily linked with a summer move.
Marca claim a deal to Getafe was on the cards for the past weeks. However, a change of situation now sees Forest best positioned to sign the 6ft 2inch centre-back.
The Spanish editorial say Forest’s owners have a special relationship with Almeria’s owner Turki Al-Sheikh, while the player is keen on a move to the City Ground.
Peybernes has a release clause of around £2.6 million. Almeria, however, would accept an initial loan deal with an obligation to sign him for £900,000.
Forest will be desperate to strengthen this summer after their collapse last term.
The Reds were comfortably in the playoffs after picking up seven points from nine on the return to action following the global health pandemic break.
But a disastrous last six games, including a last-day 4-1 home defeat to Stoke City, saw Sabri Lamouchi’s side miss out with Swansea grabbing sixth place on goal difference.
Forest have already signed Jack Colback, Tyler Blackett and Lyle Taylor. But it seems the east Midlands club aren’t done there, and a few more may follow.
Peybernes is an experienced central defender having previously represented France at U21 level. At 29, he should be approaching his peak years.
Gary Lineker: A big success on and off the pitch
- Gary Lineker enjoyed a prolific club career
Lineker featured for Leicester City, Everton and Tottenham during his two spells in English football. He won the FA Cup with Spurs in 1991.
- Nou Camp marksman
Lineker is one of the few Englishmen to star for Barcelona. He won the Copa del Rey and Cup Winner’s Cup, scoring more than 50 goals in three seasons.
- Golden Boot winner
Lineker famously won the Golden Boot for England at the 1986 World Cup, scoring six goals. He netted 48 goals in 80 international games, third only to Sir Bobby Charlton and Wayne Rooney.
- Top television host
Lineker presents BBC’s Match of the Day and BT Sport’s football coverage. He is also recognisable as the face of Walker’s Crisps.
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