Nottingham Forest have joined the race to sign talented Lyon midfielder Houssem Aouar this summer, according to a fresh transfer rumour.

The Lowdown: Aouar on the move?

The 24-year-old has been seen as a highly-rated prospect for some time now, flirting with moves to big clubs but ultimately staying put with Lyon.

Aouar has scored 29 goals and registered 23 assists in 162 appearances for the Ligue 1 giants, proving to be a creative spark and being described as 'incredible' by none other than Pep Guardiola.

The Frenchman's current Lyon deal expires at the end of next season, however, and it could be that they cash in on one of their most prized assets this summer.

The Latest: Forest emerge as potential suitors

According to Foot Mercato [via Sport Witness], Aouar is 'close to leaving' Lyon, with Forest and Leicester City battling for his signature.

It is claimed that the Foxes 'would like to double' the offer made by Real Betis but the Reds are also monitoring the situation, seeing the midfielder as a strong summer signing.

The report states that Forest could submit an offer soon.

The Verdict: Hugely exciting option

Aouar's reputation has been big for a number of years now and the thought of Forest buying would have been nothing more than a pipe dream during their time in the Championship.

Snapping him up this summer would, therefore, be an enormous coup and the France international has the ability to be a talismanic figure at the City Ground, raising the level of those around him.

Aouar scored six goals and chipped in with four assists in the league last season, as well as averaging 1.3 tackles per game, showing that he can shine both on and off the ball - something Steve Cooper demands from his players.