Earlier this summer, it was said that Nottingham Forest were keen to sign Manchester City starlet Issa Kabore.
Brentford were also interested, while OGC Nice posed a threat to Steve Cooper’s hopes of signing the right-back as well.
Now, however, it is Marseille who have delivered a definitive blow to Nottingham Forest.
What’s the story?
Well, Cooper will now have to look elsewhere, as Kabore has joined Marseille on a season-long loan deal.
The Ligue 1 side also have the option to make the move permanent for €20m (£17m) in 2023 if they choose to do so.
It means Cooper will have to find another option to pursue as he aims to strengthen his right-back department, which has already been bolstered by the arrival of Neco Williams.
Kabore earned his move to Marseille after making 32 appearances in all competitions on loan at Troyes last season, providing two assists as he impressed with his rampaging runs down the right flanks.
What Nottingham Forest might do after losing out on Kabore
In fairness to Nottingham Forest, they haven’t exactly been lazy this summer – far from it.
Despite missing out on Kabore, Cooper and Evangelos Marinakis are closing in on three signings, with announcements surely imminent.
Emmanuel Dennis has passed a medical after a fee of £20m was agreed with Watford, while Cheikhou Kouyate is also on his way after his contract at Crystal Palace expired.
Atalanta midfielder Remo Freuler is also close to moving to the City Ground.
The Championship play-off final winners are also hoping to re-sign James Garner from Manchester United.
Furthermore, a £3.5m bid has been accepted by Bordeaux for Hwang Ui-Jo, although there is a potential issue as the striker would prefer a move to Wolves.
So, despite losing out to Marseille in the race for Kabore, there is still plenty going on at Nottingham Forest.
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