Nottingham Forest boss Dougie Freedman has hinted that the club are close to sealing a "really exciting" signing.

Under FFP rules, Forest can sign 24 'established professionals', which means that the Championship outfit have only two places available.

However, Freedman has suggested that the club is close to signing a big name, reported to be an unnamed forward, although the Scot urged fans to be patient as the East Midlands side complete their transfer business.

He is quoted by the Nottingham Post as saying: "I understand the fans are enthusiastic, that they want to see players coming in. I get that. I cannot rush. I cannot spend money, I have to wait for things to fall my way. I am patiently waiting – and I have got very close to signing somebody who will really excite the fans.

"Do not ask me who it is. Nobody will know who it is. Because it is a really exciting one and I do not want to risk anything damaging this.

"Is it a Premier League player? No comment. I am not going to say anything at all to put it at risk, because if we get this player, it will be a real coup. I would love to tell you, but I cannot risk it. It is one of those situations where, if people realise he is available, we would have 20 other clubs trying to get him."

Forest drew 3-3 in their final pre-season game with Aston Villa on Saturday.