West Ham United face fresh competition for Arne Engels with Nottingham Forest reportedly ready to revive their interest in the Celtic midfielder.
The Hammers have been working on a deal for the 22-year-old throughout the summer as Nuno Espírito Santo looks to strengthen his midfield before the Championship campaign begins.
However, Football Insider reports that Nottingham Forest are well placed to challenge West Ham, having already tried repeatedly to sign Engels earlier this year.
West Ham are still described as the front-runners, but Forest’s continued interest could make negotiations considerably more difficult.
Arne Engels West Ham transfer faces fresh complication
Forest made three offers for Engels during the winter transfer window, with Celtic rejecting a package worth £25million.
Their interest has not disappeared.
Football Insider claims Oliver Glasner’s side could return for the Belgium international as they look to strengthen their midfield, while other Premier League clubs are also monitoring his situation.
That creates an obvious problem for West Ham.
Engels has already emerged as one of their leading midfield targets, and ReadWestHam highlighted the position as one of three transfer priorities before the Championship opener against Burnley.
West Ham have already seen offers rejected by Celtic, while talks have continued over a deal.
The latest report says the Hammers remain confident they can complete the transfer, but Celtic are prepared to wait for the strongest possible offer.
Forest’s presence may strengthen that position.
West Ham have made Engels a major part of their midfield rebuild following the departures of Mateus Fernandes and Freddie Potts, and the Belgian would add energy and creativity to Nuno’s options.
The Hammers remain in the race, but there is now greater pressure to make progress before a Premier League rival decides to act.
