Nottingham Forest are said to be "big favourites" to sign Konstantinos Mavropanos amid competition for the defender’s signature.
Stuttgart are reportedly willing to let the centre-back leave this summer. In addition to the Reds, Premier League rivals Fulham, as well as Eintracht Frankfurt and Napoli, have been credited with an interest.
A bid of 10 million euros (£8.5m) was previously suggested as being in the offing by Forest. Mavropanos is said to have a release clause of 25m euros (£21m), but Stuttgart could let him go for 15-20m euros (£12.8-17m).
According to Greek media outlet Sportime, the Reds are “one of the big favourites” to win the race for the 25-year-old. However, they indicate it still remains to be seen whether Forest or one of the player’s other admirers reach the required asking price.
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It has been a quiet start to the window at the City Ground, with head coach Steve Cooper yet to welcome any new additions to his squad. Nevertheless, incomings and outgoings are on the cards this summer as Forest aim to push on in the top-flight.
Although not necessarily a priority area for strengthening, the Reds will look at their central defensive options. They are keen to tighten up at the back next term, which could lead to a bolstering of the ranks in that department.
Steve Cook has already indicated a decision will need to be made on his future, given he was left out of the 25-man squad after the January window and has 12 months remaining on his deal. Joe Worrall, Loic Mbe Soh, Scott McKenna, Willy Boly and Felipe also have contracts until 2024.
Moussa Niakhate and Jonathan Panzo are tied down until 2025, although the latter seems likely to leave amid strong interest from Rangers. Giulian Biancone can also play at centre-back but faces a fight for a place in the side as he makes his comeback from a lengthy lay-off due to an ACL injury.
