Nottingham Forest’s Transfer State of Play

Nottingham Forest’s summer business is the subject of much speculation. Having signed an astonishing 30 players over the course of last season, The Reds were often ridiculed for such a spree.

But those who know the club, the make-up of the promotion winning Championship squad and the perennial injury problems the team faced last season, acknowledge that without the significant investment from the owner, the club may not have maintained their top flight status.

Although owner Evangelos Marinakis will no doubt seek to bolster Steve Cooper’s side, it is unlikely fans will be seeing such a huge influx of players.

So what’s the current state of play at Forest?

1.       Dean Henderson

The United keeper enjoyed a successful loan spell at the City Ground, before a thigh injury ruled him out for the remainder of the season. Not only did he pull of some match winning saves, he developed a strong bond with the Forest faithful.

His character and leadership shone through, travelling with the squad, often on crutches, despite knowing his season had prematurely ended.

This is why he has become Forest’s primary target to become their first choice genuine number one since the departure of Brice Samba – who has gone on to make his international debut for France.

United have slowed the process down in their quest to extend De Gea’s contract, but it’s being reported that the Spaniard has agreed new terms, setting the Henderson deal in motion.

Forest fans can expect significant developments in the next week.

2.       Callum Hudson-Odoi

While The Reds finished the season strongly, being one of only two unbeaten teams in the month of May, clubs like Forest must continue evolving in order to keep up with the competition of the Premier League.

Forest, among other European clubs, have been linked with Callum Hudson-Odoi.

With the future of Brennan Johnson unclear, and the likes of Emmanuel Dennis, Andre Ayew and Jesse Lingard making little impact in the Garibaldi, its vital that Forest add attacking firepower to support Taiwo Awoniyi – who was prolific in the final run in and instrumental in Forest’s survival.

Hudson-Odoi played under Steve Cooper for the England U-17s – and the Welsh coach has a track record of working well with players of his calibre.

The 22-year-old winger appears to have rejected the allure of the Saudia Arabia and is hoping to make a return to the Premier League, with Forest facing competition from Crystal Palace, Fulham, Brentford and West Ham.

3.       Alexander Djiku

Forest are also said to have proposed a deal to Alexander Djiku. The Ghanaian centre back made 22 appearances for Strasbourg last year and has rejected a new deal at the French club.

Although The Reds face competition from other European sides such as Mainz and Besitkas, the allure of the Premier League looks to be too strong, with an announcement possible in the coming days.

As a free agent, this deal could move quickly.

4.       Who else?

With competition so intense in the Premier League, every position on Forest’s roster would benefit from extra firepower.

Most importantly, Forest need another striker who can fill in for Awoniyi. Last season, his absence was clear and Chris Wood struggled to make an impact.

With Leeds and Leicester relegated, many believe Patrick Bamford or Kelechi Iheanacho would provide suitable attacking flare for The Reds.