Brazil U-23 defender Bambu on Ligue 1 radar

Nice are leading the race to sign Brazil U-23 center-back Robson Bambu, according to reports in the Brazilian media.

But the four-time French top-flight champions face competition from their Ligue 1 rivals Lille and Montpellier, Globo Esporte reported on March 20.

It added that Nice had offered to pay "around eight million euros" to secure the 22-year-old on a long-term deal.

"If Athletico accept the proposal, Bambu would leave when the [European] transfer window opens in the middle of the year," the report said.

Bambu has made 25 first-team appearances for Athletico Paranaense since joining the Curitiba club last year from their Brazilian Serie A rivals Santos.

He has represented Brazil at both U-20 and U-23 level.