Nottingham Forest are still seemingly on the hunt for a left-wing-back…

What’s the word?

According to the Evening Standard, Atalanta are ready to rival the Reds for Chelsea defender Emerson Palmieri.

The Italy international seems set to leave Stamford Bridge after the recent arrival of fellow full-back Marc Cucurella.

Both Forest and Atalanta have made initial contacts for the 28-year-old who impressed on loan at Lyon last season.

 He’s better than Moreno

Despite having secured a deal for Harry Toffolo earlier in the window, Steve Cooper still seems intent on adding more depth to a left-wing-back position where central midfielder Jack Colback deputised so well last season.

Links to Alex Moreno have persisted all summer, however, they were finally put to bed after the Spaniard rejected personal terms and decided to stay at Real Betis.

Fortunately for Forest, they have now set their sights on a player who can far outperform him in the Premier League due to his experience, age and ability.

Emerson spent last season out on loan for Lyon, featuring 29 times in a season the French side would rather forget.

Whilst offering a modest three goal contributions, it is his defensive attributes that truly make him shine, and also make him a better option to the forward-thinking Moreno.

He ranked in the top 4% for pressures, and the top 5% for tackles per 90, outlining him as one of the best defensive full-backs in the league.

Compared to the 15.26 pressures, 2.80 tackles and 2.08 interceptions of the 29-year-old, it is clear that Cooper would benefit much more from the "unbelievable" full-back, especially considering Toffolo could surely bear the offensive responsibility given his 14 goal contributions last season.

The £44k-per-week stalwart also boasts a slightly higher average SofaScore rating of 6.91, suggesting that despite the goals and assists Moreno can contribute, Emerson’s overall play offers more to his side.

Whilst the Real Betis man may be the flashier option, it is clear that the Italy international has dependability that could be integral in Forest’s chances of staying in the division.

One year younger and just entering his prime years, the Euro 2020 winner would surely be a better option now that a move for Moreno is out of the picture.