Nottingham Forest have been joined in the race to sign Pablo Maia by Brentford. The Reds have been monitoring the Brazilian for some time and they’ve now discovered how much he will cost.
According to reports in Brazil, Forest are watching the midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window. They did try to add him in January, but Newcastle, Fulham and West Ham are all monitoring the situation.
Maia seems almost certain to leave Sao Paulo this summer. The board have admitted to receiving interest from Europe and they’ll now consider a sale around the £12 million mark, according to UOL.
The 21-year-old is rated very highly in South America. It now seems like the natural progression for him to head to Europe and possibly the Premier League.
Forest will likely target another midfielder this summer. Remo Freuler could head back to Italy; whilst Cheikhou Kouyate is hardly getting any younger.
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One aspect that could give Forest the edge is the Brazil contingent at the club. Danilo, Felipe and Gustavo Scarpa are all signed on at the City Ground for next season.
Maia is a combative midfielder with a defensive mindset. Despite his tender years, he’s made 84 appearances for Sao Paulo, and scored five goals.
Forest and Brentford battle for Maia
This would be an interesting signing. It’s quite clear that Forest won’t be ignoring the Brazilian market when it comes to signing new players – and why would they?
Danilo has been a wonderful signing. He signed from Palmeiras in January and during the final six weeks of the season, he’s really grown as a player.
It’s no surprise that Maia has got other admirers. Brentford are an attractive proposition as an established Premier League club and they don’t get much wrong with their recruitment.
Forest will feel that they’re an attractive choice for new recruits now. With that in mind, they will hope to stamp their authority on the Premier League next season and Maia could help them achieve a more successful campaign.