British media: Forest are close to signing Diomande; the player's release clause is £68.2 million.

Osman Diomande helped Ivory Coast reach the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time.

Nottingham Forest are close to finalizing a transfer deal for Sporting Lisbon defender Osman Diomande.

The 22-year-old player is a key target for Timberwolves head coach Oliver Glasner, and negotiations have made progress in recent days.

Although a final agreement is still needed, sources say the deal between the two clubs is close to being finalized and negotiations have entered an in-depth stage.

Diomande's release clause is £68.2 million, but Forest hopes to sign the Ivorian international for a lower transfer fee.

Glasna greatly admires Diomande and had previously tried to sign the centre-back when he was managing Crystal Palace.

Diomande has made over 150 appearances for the first team, including 15 appearances for the national team.