There have been mixed reports over whether Nottingham Forest are interested in signing Reading forward Lucas Joao this summer.
The 28-year-old Angola-born striker is the latest name to be linked with a transfer to the City Ground following the Reds' promotion to the Premier League. Joao, a two-time Portugal international, is contracted to the Madejski Stadium until 2023.
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Forest could do with another attacking option ahead of the new Premier League season and they have been linked to yet another potential target. According to Darren Witcoop of the Sunday Mirror, the Reds are 'leading the race' for Joao with Reading resigned to losing him this summer. He adds that Watford, recently relegated from the Premier League, are also interested but Steve Cooper's side are in pole position.
Will Unwin of the Guardian, however, says there is "nothing in Lucas Joao to Nottingham Forest talk".
Joao is entering the final 12 months of his Royals contract and is unlikely to pen any new terms despite being a stand-out performer since joining from Sheffield Wednesday three years ago. The 28-year-old has scored 38 goals in 83 appearances for the Berkshire outfit. His best goal-scoring campaign was the 2019/20 season when he netted 22 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions.
Forest need more attacking soldiers within their ranks as only Lyle Taylor and Sam Surridge are contracted at the City Ground. Discussions will be held with and over Lewis Grabban as he approaches his 35th birthday. Keinan Davis is returning to Aston Villa after a loan spell with Forest, whilst Nuno da Costa will head back to Trentside having spent the past season with Caen. Will Swan and possibly even Dale Taylor could head out on loan moves this summer.
