Brighton trying to pull off sneaky transfer ahead of Nottingham Forest and Crystal Palace

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Nottingham Forest have had a bit of a toxic past when it comes to trying to sign a new left-back.

For many years, Forest searched high and low for a left-sided full-back and spent years playing square pegs in round holes – or attracting the wrong type of defenders for that position.

Alex Moreno has been praised by Alan Shearer this season. He’s proved one of the best left-back signings the club has made for a little while and the fact he’s left-footed brings balance to the team.

However, Moreno is only on loan. Last season, Ola Aina operated at left-back, whilst Neco Williams has now made the position his own after replacing the on-loan Aston Villa man at the beginning of December.

It does feel as though a new left-back will be in the offing during the summer window. Names have already started to be linked with the club, although Forest might be losing hope over one January target.

• READ MORE: Forest player wanted by Rangers before transfer window closes

Brighton lead the race for El Hadji Malick Diouf

According to The Sun, Brighton are now leading the chase ahead of Crystal Palace and Forest for the Slavia Prague defender. A £20 million deal looks to be on the cards and it could be completed this month.

Forest were keen to sign Diouf earlier in the transfer window. However, with Williams playing well and Moreno currently in the squad, the club have chosen to prioritise other areas for reinforcement.

Brighton face Forest on Saturday and now it remains to be seen if Diouf will be lining up against the Reds. The Seagulls are hoping to conclude a deal for the player who has been attracting interest across Europe.

Diouf can operate as a centre-back or on the left flank and he might have proved an ideal signing. He’s made 38 appearances for Slavia Prague since signing from Tromso, scoring eight goals and claiming three assists.

Forest will need left-back as summer priority

Moreno doesn’t look as though he’s going to sign permanent terms at Forest. A move to Spain has been mooted for him and with Real Betis thought to be keen, Moreno might be fancy that move.

Williams is doing a job there right now but he’s not a natural option. That means that the team can look unbalanced when it comes to going forward and perhaps a more natural left-back will be sought.

Diouf might have proved a perfect addition to the Forest ranks. At £20 million, he wouldn’t have broken the bank and at 20-years-old he may have proved a sound investment for the future.

The summer will likely see a number of areas addressed. If Forest do qualify for Europe, there will be more games to play and with that in mind, it’s vital the club lands a new left-back.