Juventus have just opened talks to sign Nottingham Forest target as Evangelos Marinakis makes offer

Nottingham Forest are now facing significant competition from Juventus in their pursuit to sign a defender.

Nottingham Forest have a substantial budget to spend after banking around £50m from Anthony Elanga’s transfer to Newcastle United.

There is still a chance Morgan Gibbs-White joins Tottenham Hotspur for in excess of £60m, with the North Londoners reportedly considering a second offer worth more than his release clause.

So, Evangelos Marinakis is set to back Nuno Espirito Santo with a number of talented players, as Forest submit a bid for Bologna’s Dan Ndoye.

They’ve also made an offer for a defender on the continent, however, Juve are now circling.

Juventus open talks to sign Nottingham Forest target Nahuel Molina

Nottingham Forest are keen on signing another right-back this summer transfer window to provide Ola Aina with help.

It’s understood Forest have identified Nahuel Molina as a top target from Atletico Madrid and Evangelos Marinakis has already submitted an offer.

Marinakis and his chiefs are awaiting a response from Atleti, however, according to La Gazzetta dello Sport, Juventus have now opened talks to sign Molina.

The 27-year-old is valued at around £26m by the Spanish giants, but Juve are keen to land his signature on an initial loan with an obligation to buy.

Clearly, Forest are on the back foot in the race to sign the Argentina international.

Forest pull out of Pablo Maffeo deal

Forest were initially trying to sign Mallorca’s Pablo Maffeo but despite the former Manchester City youngster keen on joining, the transfer is now off.

That’s because the Tricky Trees have refused to meet Maffeo’s £6.9m valuation, despite already submitting a bid worth £5.5m.

That does seem strange, considering there was only a £1.4m gap in valuations, but anyhow, Forest have moved on and now may have to do the same with Molina.

There is no pressing need to sign a right-back, though, as Aina has cover from Neco Williams, if needed.