Nottingham Forest are moving ahead of Aston Villa as they look to sign goalkeeper Costel Pantilimon from Premier League Watford.

The Romanian international spent the second half of the previous campaign on loan at City Ground, impressing with some dominant displays.

And, that has prompted Forest to go back in for the stopper according to The Sun journalist Alan Nixon. He also revealed that Villa are interested but their financial situation means they can't compete yet as it would be an expensive deal.

The West Midlands side are in a very worrying position after they failed to win promotion and need to shift players with the likes of Jack Grealish, James Chester and Jonathan Kodjia all set to leave in the coming weeks.

Therefore, Forest, who have splashed out on Joao Carvalho in a club-record fee, are hoping to clinch a deal for the player before their rivals can act.

Aitor Karanka is expecting a very busy summer as he looks to build a side that is capable of challenging for promotion after a tough first few months in charge of the Reds.

The Verdict

Pantilimon is a very good keeper at Championship level and would be a major improvement for both sides.

Therefore, this latest update is good news for Forest and they will hope to seal a deal for the player who impressed after joining in January.

He is certain to be available after falling down the pecking order at Watford so supporters will hope a deal can be agreed.

Thoughts, Forest and Villa fans? Let us know in the comments below.