Nottingham Forest have been linked with a move for Orel Mangala over the last few weeks, and now a new update has emerged detailing the player's future.
What's the latest?
According to BILD (via Sport Witness), Nottingham Forest are still fighting with fellow Premier League clubs to sign VfB Stuttgart midfielder Mangala this summer.
As per the report, there are claims that the player may never train with his German side again following intentions of a move to the Premier League, with Forest, West Ham United and Crystal Palace all named as clubs with interest in Mangala.
The report also claims that the midfielder will make a decision on his future over the next few days as he intends to secure a move as soon as possible.
Forget Garner
There is no doubt that Steve Cooper and the powers at The City Ground are doing their best to bolster the newly-promoted squad ahead of their return to action next month in the Premier League, and the Forest boss definitely needs a player like Mangala.
The £13m-valued Belgian gem has been impressive in his performances in the Bundesliga over the last season with Stuttgart, and his versatility to play in multiple midfield positions will certainly come in handy as Cooper plans for the future.
Over 28 league appearances, Mangala scored one goal, delivered three assists and created four big chances while providing one key pass and winning 3.5 duels on average per game. The midfielder also successfully completed the majority of his dribbles (59%) too.
The 24-year-old has played most of his football in the defensive and central midfield roles, deployed in either position over 167 of his 182 career appearances so far, which would make him a great replacement for James Garner who returned to Manchester United after an impressive season long loan with Forest.
Mangala was dubbed a "real talent" by Belgium manager Roberto Martinez following his performance against Ireland in March, and will surely be hoping that a move to the Premier League will help him in his chances of being picked for the World Cup squad at the end of this year.
With that being said, the signing of Mangala would be a major coup for Cooper and would ease the loss of Garner in the centre of the pitch if he can continue to develop and shine in a move to the Premier League.