Sao Paulo midfielder Pablo Maia has admitted that it would be a ‘dream’ to play in Europe amid January links to Nottingham Forest and Fulham.
The 20-year-old has caught the eye with his performances in Brazil this season after coming through the youth team. He made a total of 32 appearances in the Brazilian top division, prompting interest from a number of clubs around Europe.
Reports last month claimed that Forest were ready to step up their interest ahead of the January window. It was reported that the Reds would be willing to pay close to the asking price for the youngster in order to beat off competition from Premier League rivals Fulham.
READ MORE: Nottingham Forest man prompts World Cup demand after ‘incredible’ impact
READ MORE: Morgan Gibbs-White's two-word response to Nottingham Forest teammate Jesse Lingard announcement
Fulham are said to have seen an initial bid of around €7.5 million turned down by the Brazilian side. Sao Paulo are reported to be looking for a price closer to €10 million (around £9 million).
One option for the youngster would be to complete a move to Forest in January before returning to his club on loan until the end of the season. When asked about interest in him, Maia admitted that it would be a ‘dream’, but remained tight lipped on any possible move.
"It's a dream of mine to play in Europe,” he told UOL . “But family and businessmen take care of it and I just focus on playing football.”
Forest have already shopped in Brazil for talent ahead of the January transfer window. Attacking midfielder Gustavo Scarpa will join the club in the winter window after agreeing a pre-contract with Forest after the expiry of his deal with Palmeiras.
The 28-year-old scored seven times and provided a further 12 assists as his club lifted the Brazilian title at the end of their domestic season. He will arrive at the City Ground when the transfer window opens on January 1.
Would Maia be a good signing for Forest in January? Tell us in the comments section
READ NEXT:
- Gustavo Scarpa makes key discovery as he prepares for Nottingham Forest move
-
Ryan Yates sent heart-warming message by former Nottingham Forest manager
-
Nottingham Forest braced for transfer blow in chase for highly-rated player
Surprise return transfer plotted as Steve Cooper faces Nottingham Forest issue
