Nottingham Forest are set to rival Premier League rivals Fulham in the race to sign Sao Paulo midfielder Pablo Maia.

The Lowdown: Maia profiled

Maia is just 20 years of age and can play as a defensive midfielder, central midfielder or centre-back.

The Brazilian holds a career-high £4.5m Transfermarkt valuation and is under contract until September 2023.

Maia has made 57 senior appearances for Sao Paulo after progressing through their youth system, and it looks as if a move to the Premier League could be on the cards.

The Latest: Forest offer

Sport Witness relayed an update from Brazilian outlet Lance regarding Maia on Monday, name-checking both Forest and Fulham.

The report claimed that Forest have hinted they should be making an offer for the midfielder 'in the coming days', with Sao Paulo wanting around €10m (£8.7m).

The Verdict: One to watch

Forest were extremely busy over the summer, but it looks as if they are already making plans ahead of the January window when it comes to Maia.

He appears to be a potential future star and already has plenty of first-team experience under his belt, as well as being able to play in multiple positions.

This could be one to watch over the coming weeks, and who knows, Forest may pip Fulham to Maia’s signature and have a transfer all but sealed before the new year.