Nottingham Forest are reportedly stepping up their transfer plans ahead of deadline day, with highly-rated Auxerre midfielder Kevin Danois emerging as a potential top target for the Reds.
Forest are expected to have a relatively quiet end to the summer transfer window, with the club seemingly prioritising quality rather than making a large number of additions. However, with Oliver Glasner looking to build a squad capable of competing higher up the Premier League table, the final days of the window could still prove crucial.
Glasner’s competitive reign as Forest head coach got off to a disappointing start on Saturday when his side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Leeds United. The result highlighted some areas that could still require attention, increasing the importance of getting the club’s remaining transfer business right before the September 1 deadline.
According to French newspaper L’Equipe, Danois has emerged as a “top” target for Forest during the final days of the window. The 22-year-old is reportedly valued at more than €30 million (£25m), with Forest and Premier League rivals Crystal Palace both believed to be interested in securing his services.
Although neither club has reportedly submitted an official bid at this stage, Palace have expressed interest in the midfielder. Despite that, L’Equipe claims Forest are “close” to reaching an agreement for the Frenchman, potentially putting the Reds in a strong position as deadline day approaches.
Danois is regarded as one of Auxerre’s important players and has been named club captain this season. His versatility is believed to be one of the major attractions for Forest, with the midfielder capable of playing as a box-to-box presence while also operating further forward or on the wing when required.
His ability to contribute in several positions could make him an attractive option for Glasner, particularly in a demanding Premier League campaign where squad depth and tactical flexibility can be extremely important.
The France Under-21 international is contracted to Auxerre until 2029, but his future is reportedly becoming increasingly uncertain. Auxerre are keen to retain their captain, although the financial impact of a significant offer could make it difficult for the French club to resist a sale.
Interestingly, strengthening midfield has been a key part of Forest’s transfer plans for much of the summer. The club have already brought Xaver Schlager into the squad, while Glasner recently suggested that another midfielder was no longer a major priority.
The Austrian coach has indicated that James McAtee could operate in a deeper midfield role, with the former Manchester City player starting alongside Ibrahim Sangare against Leeds. Following that defeat, Glasner reiterated that Forest are looking to make only two more additions before the transfer deadline.
A striker and a right-back are reportedly the two positions currently at the top of the manager’s shopping list.
That could make the reported interest in Danois particularly intriguing. If Forest are genuinely close to completing a deal for the Auxerre midfielder, it would suggest that the club are prepared to take advantage of an opportunity in the market even if midfield recruitment is no longer considered an immediate priority.
Danois’ age, versatility and potential for further development could also make him an appealing long-term investment for Forest. With the midfielder already captaining Auxerre and representing France at Under-21 level, he would arrive with considerable experience despite being just 22.
For Forest supporters, the next few days could therefore provide an important indication of the club’s ambitions under Glasner. The priority remains clear: strengthen the squad with the right players rather than simply adding numbers.
With the deadline rapidly approaching, the situation surrounding Danois is one worth monitoring closely. If Forest can turn their reported interest into an agreement, the French midfielder could become one of the most significant additions of their summer window.
