Nottingham Forest are reportedly closing in on the signing of Troyes defender Giulian Biancone, according to journalist Jacque Talbot. 

The lowdown: Career so far

A product of the youth system at AS Monaco, the 22-year-old signed for Belgian outfit Cercle Brugge on loan twice before being sold to Troyes last August.

The France youth international enjoyed a superb campaign in Ligue 1 as Troyes finished 15th on their return to the French top flight.

It now appears as though a move to the Premier League could be the next step in a promising career for Biancone...

The latest: 'Will join...'

Taking to Twitter, Talbot - a European football correspondent for numerous outlets - claimed on Saturday afternoon that the 22-year-old had passed his medical and was on the verge of completing a transfer to the City Ground.

He stated: “Exc: Told Giulian Biancone passed his medical an hour ago at Nottingham Forest and will join the side ahead of pre-season. Moussa Niakhaté will be done soon and there is confidence in Liverpool's Neco Williams getting wrapped up as well. #NFFC”

Elsewhere on the deal for Biancone, The Athletic reported that the Reds will pay £5m for the versatile defender, who earned £3,200 per week at Troyes during 2022 (Salary Sport).

The verdict: Smart business

Holding a perceived market value of £3.6m and under contract until 2026 (Transfermarkt), signing the Frenchman for the aforementioned fee must to be regarded as a shrewd piece of business from the Forest hierarchy.

Last season, the former Monaco youngster earned an impressive 6.88 Sofascore rating whilst winning 4.9 duels and making 1.6 interceptions and two clearances per game, showcasing superb defensive attributes in the process.

Capable of operating as a central defender, in either full-back role and in more advanced wide positions, Biancone adds invaluable versatility to Steve Cooper's squad as the Welshman plans for life managing in the Premier League.