NOTTINGHAM Forest have cooled their interest in Albion target Niki Maenpaa.

The City Ground outfit will not be making a move for the 30-year-old Finland international goalkeeper, leaving the Seagulls as favourites to bring him to the Championship.

Albion and Forest were leading contenders to sign Maenpaa, who recently left Dutch second division outfit VVV-Venlo, but he has also attracted interest overseas.

The Argus revealed 11 days ago that Albion were favourites to land Maenpaa – but that Forest were also planning talks.

But they last night appeared to be turning to other options.

Reasons for Forest’s change of heart were unclear.

Maenpaa’s agent has confirmed he is keeping contract discussions with his client on hold until after the current flurry of international matches.

The former RC Lens keeper played for Finland in a friendly against Estonia in Turku last night but was at fault for the opening goal by Ats Puje in a 2-0 defeat.

Finland host Hungary in a Euro 2016 qualifier on Saturday, after which Maenpaa can make the big decision on his future.

Meanwhile Albion coach Nathan Jones is believed to be in a two-man race with former Ross County manager Derek Adams for the vacant managerial position at Plymouth Argyle.

The pair have emerged as favourites from a six-man shortlist.

Albion could face Sussex neighbours Crawley Town in the first round of the Capital One Cup after details of seedings were confirmed yesterday.

The draw will be announced at 10am next Tuesday.