Premier League new boys Bournemouth and Watford are battling to sign former Manchester City midfielder Abdisalam Ibrahim.
Somali-born Norway international Ibrahim, 24, played just once for Greek side Olympiakos after his contract at City ran out last summer.
The powerful midfielder, once dubbed the new Patrick Vieira, made only a single league appearance during his seven-year stint at the Etihad – and was farmed out to Scunthorpe, Dutch top-flight side NEC and Norwegian side Stromsgodset.
Aston Villa were keen on Ibrahim, who has two senior caps for Norway, last summer but are unlikely to renew their interest.
Eddie Howe is also fighting the Hornets for Crystal Palace midfielder Adlene Guedioura – who the London side are attempting to force off the wage will.
Howe has been busy in the transfer marker this summer with midfielder Christian Atsu, striker Joshua King and goalkeeping pair Adam Federici and Artur Boruc already joining the Cherries.
