Nottingham Forest willing to double Manchester City man's wages and promise starting role to pull off audacious transfer ahead of busy European campaign

Initial talks between the clubs have already taken place, but Forest’s first formal proposal, reported at €25 million plus €5m in add-ons (around £25m/$34m total), was swiftly dismissed by the Premier League champions. Pep Guardiola’s side are said to value their academy graduate closer to €40m (£34m/$46m) and will not allow him to leave unless that figure is met, as reported by Santi Aouna.

Having featured in 48 matches last season, starting 37 across multiple competitions, Lewis has grown into a dependable option whether at right-back, left-back or shielding the defence in midfield. In the process, he also scored two goals and notched up five assists last term. 

The move for Lewis is part of a wider transfer blitz at the City Ground. Already through the door are Dan Ndoye from Bologna, Brazilian duo Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha from Botafogo, and experienced goalkeeper Angus Gunn on a free. Deals are also in motion for Manchester City midfielder James McAtee in a £30m ($40.5m) package and a club-record £37.5m ($51m) swoop for Ipswich Town star Omari Hutchinson. They are additionally negotiating with Rennes striker Arnaud Kalimuendo, while winger Callum Hudson-Odoi is on the verge of penning a new contract.

Matching City’s €40m asking price would make him one of Forest’s most expensive signings in history, placing immediate pressure on Lewis. Nonetheless, the offer to double Lewis’ wages and tie him down to a central role speaks volumes about Nuno Espirito Santo's intent.