Nottingham Forest are said to be keen to tie defensive duo Joe Worrall and Scott McKenna to new contracts.
Both enjoyed terrific seasons, being at the heart of the Reds’ promotion success. And they could see their efforts rewarded with improved terms.
Worrall and McKenna have two years left to run on their current deals, which will expire in 2024. According to The Athletic, Forest want to offer them fresh contracts.
READ MORE: Forest confirm pre-season schedule as preparations step up for Premier League return
READ MORE: Why Forest transfer 'punt' could prove perfect move for Taiwo Awoniyi
Defender 'interest'
Nottingham Forest have been linked with a move for Manchester United youngster Brandon Williams.
It is a crucial transfer window for head coach Steve Cooper as he puts together a squad ready for the Reds’ return to the top-flight. And defence is one area where he will look to strengthen for the upcoming campaign.
Forest need additions at wing-back, after loanees Djed Spence and Max Lowe impressed on the right and left flanks, respectively, last season. According to the Daily Mail, the Reds have been credited with an interest in Williams as they aim to plug those gaps.
The fact the 21-year-old can operate on either flank is said to be a plus point. But the report adds United “look only keen to sell” and have placed a £10m price tag on the player’s head.
Transfer 'twist'
Nottingham Forest’s pursuit of Rangers playmaker Joe Aribo has taken a twist with reports that Steve Cooper is “closing in” on an alternative target.
The Reds are understood to be one of three Premier League clubs interested in bringing the former Charlton Athletic midfielder back south of the border to England. However, our sister title the Daily Record are today reporting that Forest have turned their attention to Domen Crnigoj, a versatile midfielder from Venezia who, the report says, is “edging closer” to the City Ground.
Tuttomercatoweb reported last week that Forest had opened talks with Crnigoj. The two-time European champions are allegedly "confident" that a deal can be agreed. That move won’t rule out a move for Aribo, it says, but claims Cooper is aiming to add the experienced Slovenian to his Premier League squad imminently.
London-born Nigeria international Aribo, meanwhile, has spent the last three years north of the border but has just a year left on his current contract and has apparently ‘made it clear’ that an extension won’t be signed to stay at Ibrox Stadium. Aribo previously played three seasons at Charlton, helping them to League One promotion before being tempted to Scotland by then-manager Steven Gerrard.
Transfer talk
Preparations are stepping up as Nottingham Forest’s return to the Premier League draws nearer.
The Reds have made their first signing of the summer, with forward Taiwo Awoniyi making the move from Union Berlin for a club record fee at the weekend. That marks the start of what is set to be a busy - and important - transfer window for head coach Steve Cooper, with further incomings, as well as outgoings, expected.
Forest have also set out part of their pre-season plans, with a number of friendlies confirmed. So far, games against Coventry City, Burton Albion, Barnsley, Hertha Berlin and Union Berlin have been arranged.
And the countdown is on to the first game of the new campaign, at Newcastle United on August 6. After 23 years, the Reds will be back in the top-flight, with owner Evangelos Marinakis having made clear they want to establish themselves at that level.
It means there was plenty to talk about in our live Q&A. Reds reporter Sarah Clapson was in the hot seat, answering questions and responding to comments.
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