Nottingham Forest are reportedly closing in on the signing of free agent Cheikhou Kouyate, with the Reds now in 'advanced talks' to acquire his signature.

The Lowdown: Kouyate linked with Forest move

The 32-year-old is currently without a club after his contract expired at Crystal Palace earlier in the summer.

Forest emerged as potential suitors for Kouyate at the beginning of this week, with Steve Cooper still eyeing up a dominant midfield signing before the end of the transfer window.

It now looks as though a move is closer than ever, following a significant update.

The Latest: Reds close to next signing

According to Football Insider, Forest are now in 'advanced talks' with Kouyate over a summer move, as they aim to 'add some experience and steel to their squad'.

The midfielder tasted Africa Cup of Nations glory with Senegal earlier in the year, in what was arguably the crowning moment of his career to date, and looks likely to become Dane Murphy and Co's 13th capture of the summer before the move for Morgan Gibbs-White.

The Verdict: Shrewd, experienced signing?

Kouyate could be a shrewd signing by Forest after their comprehensive 2-0 defeat at Newcastle United in the Premier League last weekend, with the midfield possibly in need of an experienced head.

The Senegalese veteran has registered 14 goals and assists piece in 258 Premier League appearances, highlighting his pedigree, not to mention playing 206 times for Anderlecht, too.

Kouyate is the type of player who could allow others - like Gibbs-White - to flourish further forward and provide stability in midfield, having averaged both 1.9 tackles and aerial duel wins per game in the league for Palace last season.