Man City plan to accept Rico Lewis offer as Nottingham Forest 'explore' deal
Man City defender Rico Lewis remains on Nottingham Forest's radar as he weighs up his next move this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Lewis was close to joining Forest last summer but instead stayed at City and signed a new five-year contract extension in September.
He made just 11 Premier League appearances in Pep Guardiola's final campaign at the Etihad Stadium.
Enzo Maresca is set to assess his options in every position after succeeding the City legend, and it remains to be seen if Lewis is part of his plans.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Forest are continuing to monitor his situation and lay the groundwork for a potential deal amid their own managerial change as City could agree to let him leave.
Recent reports have stated that the 21-year-old was mentioned in negotiations for Elliot Anderson, but any deal will now be done separately.
Rico Lewis could join Nottingham Forest this summer
Lewis only started four league games last season, but did register five goal contributions in 23 appearances across all competitions.
He has been a Forest target for close to 12 months now, and so Oliver Glasner's likely arrival as their new manager is not set to end their interest in his services.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "I don't think City are actively pushing Rico Lewis out the exit door as well, but I think they would be prepared to maybe facilitate a deal if a suitable offer was to arrive.
"If City do make Lewis available, there will be a lot of clubs interested in him because he is such a versatile player. He can play at right-back and in midfield. Nottingham Forest are long-term admirers and exploring a deal."
Man City make Malo Gusto decision after Chelsea demand
City have been closely linked to Chelsea star Gusto as Maresca plans a reunion with his old defender.
The right-back notched nine goal contributions in 56 appearances last season and is currently at the World Cup with France.
Chelsea want £75million for his services, but sources have exclusively revealed to Football Insider that City are only willing to pay £45m for Gusto.
His arrival would push Lewis even further down the Etihad pecking order, giving Forest an even better chance of sealing his signature.