According to Fabrizio Romano, Southampton have opened talks with Manchester City over a deal for Nottingham Forest target Issa Kabore.
What’s the story?
Well, Nottingham Forest had already seen a £17m bid rejected for the Burkina Faso international earlier in the window, before they focused their attention on Liverpool right-back Neco Williams.
Now, Southampton are set to try their luck in a bid to sign Kabore, who spent the 2021/22 campaign on loan with Troyes in Ligue 1.
OGC Nice are also interested.
Romano believes the Saints are currently leading the race for the 21-year-old’s signature, and he is likely to follow Romeo Lavia and Joe Aribo to the south coast.
The latter is currently undergoing a medical ahead of his £6m move from Rangers, with an official announcement expected shortly.
In 32 appearances for Troyes, Kabore provided two assists, while also proving to be a bit of a hothead as he picked up two red cards, along with seven yellow cards.
Romano adds that talks are ongoing, so we presume Southampton will firm up their interest with a bid should negotiations progress smoothly with the Citizens.
Southampton should have free run with Nottingham Forest occupied
In our view, Ralph Hasenhuttl should be able to get this deal wrapped up pretty quickly, with Steve Cooper currently focusing on Liverpool defender Williams – as aforesaid.
According to some sources, Nottingham Forest have agreed a £17m deal with the Reds for the Wales international, interestingly for the same sum offered to Manchester City for Kabore.
Evidently, the Championship play-off final winners set aside £17m for a new right-back, and no more.
If that deal breaks down, there is a chance of Nottingham Forest returning to the Etihad Stadium for Kabore, which should encourage the Saints to get things done quickly.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, with talks ongoing.
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