Nottingham Forest and Fulham keen on international centre-back

Promoted sides Nottingham Forest and Fulham are currently in the race for Fenerbahce centre-back Attila Szalai, according to a report from Takvim.

The 24-year-old, who already has 24 senior caps under his belt for Hungary, was one of the first names on the teamsheet for the Turkish Super Lig outfit during the 2021/22 campaign, making 31 league appearances.

Also making six appearances in the Europa League, he has been a crucial asset for a side that managed to secure second place in their domestic league, above the likes of Besiktas and Galatasaray with Jorge Jesus’ side qualifying for Europe.

He may not get the chance to play in Europe next term if he makes the move to England though, with recently-promoted sides Fulham and Forest both thought to have taken an interest in the defender’s signature.

The Cottagers are a side that are in particular need of more options in the backline with Michael Hector and Alfie Mawson both leaving the English capital on the expiration of their contracts this summer, with Terence Kongolo’s future also uncertain at this stage.

They aren’t alone in the race for his signature though, with Steve Cooper’s side and league rivals Newcastle United also believed to be weighing up a move for the Hungarian.

The trio may have to fork out a considerable fee for his signature though, with his contract in Turkey not due to expire until the summer of 2025.

The Verdict:

For Marco Silva’s side, not only are they lacking in depth following Hector and Mawson’s departures but also quality with a starter ideally needing to come in alongside Tosin Adarabioyo to give them the best possible chance of remaining afloat in the division.

They also need to address their attacking area with Fabio Carvalho leaving and