Nottingham Forest are reportedly in advanced discussions with Ipswich Town winger Omari Hutchinson, with a potential club-record deal of £37.5 million in the works. This move would surpass their current transfer record of £35 million, which was set just last month with the signing of Dan Ndoye from Bologna.

Forest's pursuit of Hutchinson signals their intent to bolster their squad ahead of the new Premier League season and their return to European competition. Nuno Espirito Santo, the Forest manager, has identified the winger as a key target to add pace, creativity, and depth to the team's attacking options.

Hutchinson, 21, has impressed with his performances, even during Ipswich Town's relegation from the Premier League last season. He made 32 appearances in all competitions, scoring three goals and providing two assists. His tireless work rate and threat on the right flank have attracted the attention of several clubs, including Forest.

The winger's journey includes time in Arsenal's youth ranks before returning to Chelsea in 2022. He then joined Ipswich Town on loan for the 2023-24 season, playing a crucial role in their promotion to the top flight. His move to Ipswich was made permanent last summer for a fee of up to £22.5 million.

Hutchinson has also gained international experience, having been capped twice by Jamaica at the senior level and being part of the England Under-21 squad that won the European Championship in June.

Negotiations between Nottingham Forest and Ipswich Town have progressed rapidly, with Forest's initial bid of £35 million being rejected. Ipswich were reportedly holding out for close to £40 million but are now understood to be ready to accept Forest's improved offer. Personal terms are not expected to be an issue, although both Forest and Hutchinson are aware of other potential options.

Hutchinson's absence from Ipswich's recent games, including their Championship opener against Birmingham City, has been attributed to a throat infection and mental uncertainty due to transfer speculation.

Forest have been active in the transfer market, with the potential acquisitions of Rennes forward Arnaud Kalimuendo for around £26 million and Manchester City midfielder James McAtee also in discussion. They have already added Dan Ndoye, defender Jair Cunha from Botafogo, and goalkeeper Angus Gunn to their squad. The club's transfer activity has been boosted by the sale of Anthony Elanga to Newcastle for £52 million.

In addition to Hutchinson and McAtee, Forest are also reportedly interested in Douglas Luiz from Juventus, and Southampton's Mateus Fernandes. They have also held talks with AC Milan about Yunus Musah.

However, with the deadline for registering players for the weekend's Premier League matches passing on Friday, it is unlikely that Hutchinson or McAtee will feature in Forest's opening game against Brentford.