Looking towards the summer, Nottingham Forest have now reportedly joined the race to sign a Championship star for Nuno Espirito Santo when the transfer window swings open.
Nottingham Forest transfer news
Whilst they’re still sat as high as third in what has been the story of the season, Forest have struggled to find their form since returning from a warm-weather training camp at the beginning of the month.
Having been forced to defeat Exeter City on penalties in the FA Cup, they were then defeated by Fulham before top four rivals Newcastle United made matters worse with a 4-3 victory in a game that saw the Magpies take a 4-1 lead at half-time.
Those at the City Ground will be desperately hoping that a recent blip does not threaten to pick an otherwise incredible season apart, making Arsenal’s visit all the more important.
Victory over the Gunners would see Forest close the gap on Mikel Arteta’s side in second by just three points to perhaps spark hope that their season could yet get even better. With Champions League qualification still the surprise goal, the Midlands club could have European football in their corner as they chase one target’s signature this summer.
According to Graeme Bailey for The Boot Room, Nottingham Forest are now battling to sign Hayden Hackney from Middlesbrough alongside Crystal Palace this summer.
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The Tricky Trees are set to battle their Premier League rivals for the signature of an attacker, after watching him in action.
The Boro midfielder is reportedly valued at £20m following another impressive season in the Championship and could yet find himself at the centre of a Premier League race when the window swings open.
On paper, Forest should be best placed to welcome such players given their recent rise, which could yet include Champions League football. But with the ball potentially in Hackney’s court, he will have a decision to make.
“Special” Hackney is one to watch
Still just 22 years old, Hackney looks destined to reach the Premier League with or without Middlesbrough. The defensive midfielder has enjoyed another solid campaign, even as Boro’s play-off ambitions continue to fall away, with Forest now eyeing his signature and the chance to form quite the partnership at the heart of their side.
Alongside Elliot Anderson, Hackney could form a midfield partnership which steals the headlines for years to come at the City Ground – perhaps even on the European stage next season. Described as “special” by analyst Ben Mattinson, the Boro star is more than ready to step into the top flight this summer.
Boro’s £20m asking price may seem steep for a player who is yet to even step foot in the Premier League, but Hackney is a worthwhile investment as a midfield talent still approaching the peak of his powers, as Forest could find out this summer.