Nottingham Forest transfer latest: St Etienne centre-back Mickael Nade emerges on Cooper radar

Premier League newcomers Nottingham Forest are reportedly looking to sign centre-back Mickael Nade from St Etienne this summer following the club’s relegation from Ligue 1.

Forest are back in the top flight for the first time in 23 years after a remarkable turnaround under Steve Cooper saw them beat Huddersfield in the play-off final at Wembley.

At the heart of their incredible form, however, was a rock-solid defence. Indeed, Cooper’s men conceded just 40 goals in 46 Championship outings.

Homegrown star Joe Worrall was outstanding alongside Scott McKenna. Meanwhile, the experienced Steve Cook fitted in perfectly after arriving from Bournemouth in January.

However, it looks like Cooper still wants to build on a strength, with Nade on his radar.

The 23-year-old’s current contract runs out in 2024, but St Etienne are likely to cash in following relegation.

Forest will face competition for his signature though, with L’Equipe stating that Angers want the 6ft 1in defender.

His former teammate Alassane Diaby certainly feels Nade can succeed wherever he goes next.

He told Made in Foot: “At 23, being a starter in Saint-Etienne, in Ligue 1 and playing practically every game, little by little, he is making a name for himself.

“I can assure you that today, a Wissam Ben Yedder [Monaco striker] knows who Mickael Nade is.”

Forest are expected to have a busy summer ahead of them, with loan signings Djed Spence, Max Lowe, Keinan Davis and James Garner all returning to their parent clubs.

There is some hope that Spence could return on a permanent deal. Manchester United, meanwhile, are likely to be open to another loan for Garner.

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