Everton are "determined" to sign Nottingham Forest forward Brennan Johnson this summer.
The Welsh international is reportedly at the top of Everton's transfer wish list as former Derby boss Frank Lampard looks to boost his Everton squad. He has caught the attention of several Premier League clubs after being crowned EFL Young Player of the Season with his stunning performances for the Reds.
According to the Daily Mail, Johnson's departure is likely if Forest lose the play-off final against Huddersfield on Sunday and he could command a fee of £20m. If Forest earn promotion to the Premier League, however, Johnson will open talks over a new contract - with his current deal set to expire in the summer of 2023.
Read more: Marcelo Bielsa revealed as secret weapon for Huddersfield in Nottingham Forest play-off final
Read more: Nottingham Forest Q&A live: Play-offs final, Wembley team selection, transfers
Newcastle, Leicester and Brentford have been watching Johnson closely throughout the season, though Everton are "determined" to win the race for his signature. Brentford have previously tried hard to sign Johnson, though their efforts were quickly rebuffed by the Reds hierarchy.
The Everton report comes shortly after Forest chairman Nicholas Randall QC admitted the club are prepared for transfer 'shocks'. He said: "I am sure we will receive bids as we are a fantastic outfit.
"These are the problems that come with success and the reason why we changed tactic a little bit for this season was because we wanted to make sure we have foundations in place so that when these shocks happen - which is inevitable when being on the verge of the Premier League - that we are prepared to meet them."
