Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis enters talks to buy iconic club – with former Arsenal chief Edu set to take global football role under the Greek businessman

Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is interested in adding iconic Brazilian side Vasco da Gama to his stable of clubs.

Greek businessman Marinakis is keen to increase his portfolio of teams that already includes Forest, Olympiakos and Rio Ave – with Vasco among the clubs currently in his sights.

Early discussions about a possible deal, which would see Marinakis acquire a controlling stake in the South American club, are understood to be underway but described as still some distance from being even close to being finalised.

Nevertheless, the possible deal raises the prospect of one of world football’s most recognisable clubs being controlled by Marinakis.

Former Arsenal sporting director Edu, who played for Vasco’s domestic rivals Corinthians, is set to join Marinakis’ team in a global football role that will likely see him play an influential role with Vasco if the takeover is successful.

Vasco were previously owned by 777 Partners, who once tried takeover at Everton.

Vasco Da Gama have won four Brazilian titles, and currently have former West Ham star Dimitri Payet (pictured) in their squad

Former Arsenal sporting director Edu is set to take a global role under Marinakis

Some of the most recognisable Brazilian players of all-time have played for Vasco including Romario, Bebeto and Mazinho.

Marinakis already has solid connections in Brazil – Danilo and Murillo both arriving from the Campeonato Brasileiro in recent seasons.