Nottingham Forest Summer Recruitment Plan 2022
This is a recruitment plan for Nottingham Forest during the 2022 summer. This document reviews the previous season and looks at the squad in depth, before scouting and recommending players to sign this summer on Forest's return to the Premier League.
This is a recruitment plan for Nottingham Forest during the 2022 summer. This document reviews the previous season and looks at the squad in depth, before scouting and recommending players to sign this summer on Forest's return to the Premier League.
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Nottingham Forest Summer Recruitment Plan 2022
Data-led approach by Henshaw Analysis
Wednesday 8th June
Introduction
This analytics piece will review the 2021/22 Nottingham Forest squad from a data
point of view. I will look at the current first team players as well as those who were
out on loan, and make recommendations on their current and future potential ability to
play for Nottingham Forest.
Following the review of the current squad and players Steve Cooper has at his
disposal, I will aim to highlight possible transfer targets. These are players I believe to
be realistic targets within Forest's transfer and wage budget to help compliment and
better the squad for Premier League football.
This document is in no way affiliated with Nottingham Forest Football Club, and is the
work of myself, Liam Henshaw (@HenshawAnalysis).
Preamble
The 2021/22 season was easily the best season of my life as a Nottingham Forest supporter,
despite the low points at the start of the season. Seeing the squad develop and improve over
time under Steve Cooper's stewardship has been nothing short of remarkable.
If for some reason anyone from the club reads this document, I would like to personally thank you
for bringing the good days back to Nottingham. I can not wait to watch Premier League football
at the City Ground for the first time in my life.
As always, I would like to thank the analytics community and all the fantastic people on twitter.
All of you have helped me on my journey of data analysis, and in turn contributed towards this
body of work.
If you do get chance to read this document I would love to hear your thoughts and feedback, so
please drop me a message on twitter @HenshawAnalysis. Finally, I would be very grateful if you
shared this on social media and with your friends and family.
Nottingham Forest Squad Depth
PLAYER NAME + YEARS LEFT ON CONTRACT | ONE YEAR LEFT | OUT OF CONTRACT* | LOAN DEPARTING | LOAN RETURNING
LWB
MAX LOWE
GAETAN BONG*
NICHOLAS IOANNOU +1
LCB
LAM
SCOTT MCKENNA +2
JONATHAN PANZO +3
CM
ALEX MIGHTEN +3
XANDE SILVA +1
JAMES GARNER
JACK COLBACK +1
HARRY ARTER +1
GK
CB
ST
BRICE SAMBA +1
ETHAN HORVATH +2
JORDAN SMITH +1
STEVE COOK +2
TOBIAS FIGUEIREDO*
RILEY HARBOTTLE*
CM
RCB
RYAN YATES +3
CAFU +1
BRAIAN OJEDA +3
TYRESE FORNAH +2
OLIVER HAMMOND +1
RAM
KEINAN DAVIS
BRENNAN JOHNSON +1
LEWIS GRABBAN*
SAM SURRIDGE +2
LYLE TAYLOR +1
NUNO DA COSTA +1
JOE WORRALL +2
LOIC MBE SOH +2
BABA FERNANDES*
RWB
DJED SPENCE
RICHIE LARYEA +3
CARL JENKINSON*
JAYDEN RICHARDSON*
FIN BACK +3
MOHAMED DRAGER +1
PHILIP ZINCKERNAGEL
JOE LOLLEY +1
ATEEF KONATE +1
Notes: Contract dates refer to years left on the player's current deal as of 01/07/22 | Underlined names are players who have an undisclosed
contract length and are an estimate | Order of the players by position is in preferred order | Data is via Transfermarkt
Graphic: @HenshawAnalysis
Nottingham Forest Squad Depth
PLAYER NAME + YEARS LEFT ON CONTRACT | ONE YEAR LEFT | OUT OF CONTRACT* | LOAN DEPARTING | LOAN RETURNING
YOUTH - U23 PEAK (24-29) EXPERIENCED (30+)
GOALKEEPERS
BRICE SAMBA +1
ETHAN HORVATH +2
JORDAN SMITH +1
DEFENDERS
LOIC MBE SOH +2
JONATHAN PANZO +3
BABA FERNANDES*
RILEY HARBOTTLE*
DJED SPENCE
FIN BACK +3 JAYDEN RICHARDSON*
JOE WORRALL +2
SCOTT MCKENNA +2
RICHIE LARYEA +3
TOBIAS FIGUEIREDO*
MAX LOWE NICHOLAS IOANNOU +1
MOHAMED DRAGER +1
STEVE COOK +2
GAETAN BONG*
CARL JENKINSON*
MIDFIELDERS
JAMES GARNER
BRAIAN OJEDA +3
OLIVER HAMMOND +1
TYRESE FORNAH +2
RYAN YATES +3
CAFU +1
JACK COLBACK +1
HARRY ARTER +1
FORWARDS
ALEX MIGHTEN +3
ATEEF KONATE +1
BRENNAN JOHNSON +1
SAM SURRIDGE +2
PHILIP ZINCKERNAGEL
JOE LOLLEY +1
XANDE SILVA +1
KEINAN DAVIS
LEWIS GRABBAN*
LYLE TAYLOR +1
NUNO DA COSTA +1
Notes: Contract dates refer to years left on the player's current deal as of 01/07/22 | Underlined names are players who have an undisclosed contract length and are
an estimate | Data is via Transfermarkt
Graphic: @HenshawAnalysis
Team Information
Youth Peak Experienced
Last season Forest has no players aged
U26 who had played more than 3,500
minutes.
This season they have had six in Joe
Worrall, Scott McKenna, Ryan Yates,
Brennan Johnson, Djed Spence and
James Garner. This has been a massive
turn around.
We have also seen a drop off in the
number of experienced players from
eight to just five.
This is the direction the club are going in
and where possible I will be targeting
players in their youth or early peak for
the recruitment plan.
Goalkeepers - Samba, Horvath, Smith
& My Verdict
Let's start with the keepers, and if I'm honest I'm not going to spend too long on them. The data I have access to on goalkeepers is
limited, but I don't think Forest can be unhappy with any of the keepers this season. The below visual, displaying the two main
statistics makes good viewing for the Forest shot-stoppers.
Samba and Horvath both show well above average for
prevented goals per 90, and save rate percentage. This means
both keepers have conceded less goals than they were expected
to.
There has been a lot of discussion around Brice Samba's
distribution. His short / medium passing accuracy of 98.15% is
above average. However his long passing accuracy of 57.91% is
the 4th lowest. This is an area he could improve, particularly
with Forest seeing plenty of the ball under Steve Cooper.
Both keepers are competitive and have shown to be great shotstoppers.
Jordan Smith is someone who knows the club and is
fine as 3rd choice.
Verdict: No changes needed with any of the goalkeepers.
Centre Back - Joe Worrall
Joe Worrall has had an excellent season, probably his best in a Forest shirt.
As someone who has been somewhat critical of him at times, I feel as
though he's been very good. The shift to a back three under Cooper has
really helped him showcase his ability on the ball, which he was unable to do
consistently in the back four under Chris Hughton.
Worrall ranks in the 83rd percentile for progressive run and the 87th
percentile of progressive passes. Putting that into numbers he averages 8.83
progressive actions per 90 minutes. This ranks him 12th among all centre
backs in the league.
The system which Forest play means he is a vital piece in how the play is
built from the back. That can be seen in those progressive numbers, but also
the volume of forward passes he makes.
He can be an attacking threat, who is very active defensively and likes to
play on the front foot. I still think Worrall can improve in 1-on-1 defensive
situations.
Overall though, it has been a very positive season for Worrall, who can be
proud of his and his team's development over the course of the season.
Centre Back - Scott McKenna
McKenna has somewhat become a cult hero for some supporters this
season. The Scottish international has showcased his amazing defensive
ability. He has the third best defensive duel success rate in the league
(78.85%), which ranks him in the 98th percentile. He also ranks in the
70th percentile for aerial duel success, well above average again.
When you add in the context of him playing as a LCB in a back three, it
explains why he doesn't engage in a lot of defensive or aerial duels.
In possession McKenna is solid and sound. He retains possession of the
ball well despite not being the most progressive with his passing range.
He does like to play lofted through balls which look to stretch the
backline, and we've seen success from these at times this season.
He does have a great ability to use his power and strength to break the
lines with his ball carrying. He averages 0.92 progressive runs per 90,
and if I'm being critical I would love to see him increase this number as I
think it's a causes the opposition real issues.
McKenna, much like Worrall has had his best season for Forest, and
you've got to be happy with his role in the side this season.
Centre Back - Steve Cook
Cook was signed in the January window, which Forest fans recognised we
needed especially with the switch to the back three. Since Cook has come in
he's added a calm, experienced head who has slipped into the back three
seamlessly.
He's an aerially dominant defender who seems to get his body in the way of
everything. He blocks 1.07 shots and has 9.49 interceptions (possession
adjusted) per 90, both ranking him in the top five centre backs in the league.
Cook is also surprisingly good with his progressive runs, he's got this subtle
ability to calmly beat forwards who are closing him down quickly and then
break into the middle third. This is a vital skill when being the central
defender in a back three.
Similar to McKenna, the system Forest play mean at times the defenders
don't need to engage in many duels. Cook's ability in possession is solid
enough but his body on the line defending is why he's in the side.
Steve Cook was an excellent January addition. It feels like he fits this side
beautifully and represents good business.
Centre Back - Tobias Figueiredo
Tobias Figueiredo has massively changed his perception this season. He's
a player who looked certain to leave last summer, however that move
never materialised. He's rolled his sleeves up and been a true professional.
Throughout the most of March and the beginning of April, Forest had to
call upon Figueiredo due to Steve Cook's injury, during their FA Cup run
and tough league games against other play-off contenders, and to be fair
to him he was excellent during that period.
Figueiredo is a limited defender. He does what you need from your centre
half and not a great deal more. He works hard, he tries to be aggressive,
he's good in the air and he wants to put his body on the line.
His ball playing ability is lacking though and he doesn't have the
consistency when playing tougher, more adventurous passes. Similarly, he
can be a player who looks flustered under pressure which can lead to
errors.
As a back up defender in the Championship, Figueiredo is fine. He's been a
good servant to the club in his time, but his contract is up at the end of the
season, and you have to feel he will be moving on.
Centre Back - Mbe Soh, Panzo,
Harbottle, Fernandes & My Verdict
Due to the form and availability of the other four defenders, we've sadly not had much of a chance to see Loic Mbe Soh, Jonathan
Panzo, Riley Hartbottle or Baba Fernandes much this season.
Loic Mbe Soh will probably be disappointed with his lack of opportunities this season. He has shown to be a confident, ball playing,
athletic defender. But he has also shown some sloppy performances in the U23s. This isn't abnormal for a younger player, however I
can see why he's struggled to break into the first team on a regular basis.
Jonathan Panzo signed in the January window from Dijon. He again has showed promise but has only had one opportunity in the first
team which came on the last day of the season. He's a player full of promise, confident on the ball, great ball carrying ability and
athletic, despite not being the biggest. He'll get more opportunities, but he might need a loan in the meantime.
Riley Harbottle is a centre back who has put in some excellent performances with the U23s this season. He is out of contract in the
summer, but has shown he can be a ball carrying threat, strong in a tackle and defensively solid. At 21, Forest have to make a decision
on him. Similarly, Baba Fernandes is also out of contract in the summer. His lack of opportunities with Forest this season probably
hints towards him moving on.
Verdict: Very happy with McKenna, Cook and Worrall. Forest may need to consider contingency plans for Worrall with potential
summer interest, although that seems less likely now with promotion. Mbe Soh and Panzo as squad players, but need loan moves in
the short term. I'd offer Riley Harbottle a new deal and look to loan him out, and I'd release Baba Fernandes.
Right Wingback - Djed Spence
You know the saying don't fall in love with a loan player? Well it's been very
hard for Forest fans not to fall in love with Spence.
He's one of the best fullbacks/wingbacks Forest have had in some time,
along with Matty Cash of course. Djed Spence is a ball carrying machine,
who suit's this Forest team down to the ground. The setup allows him to
start in deeper positions and utilise his ball carrying ability.
He has only had four assists this season, however he gets into good
positions. He's often involved in the build up prior to goal involvements
through linking the play inside with Zinckernagel and Brennan Johnson.
His athletic ability is something which really helps him out defensively.
Spence can be positionally poor, and playing in the RWB combined with his
recovery speed negates this issue. However, it is an area he should be
looking to improve. Although if he moves to a ball dominant attacking side,
his current level of defensive ability might be fine.
Spence has been class this season though, incredibly exciting and gets the
fans off their seat. He's one of the biggest threats and will be tough to
replace.
Right Wingback - Laryea, Back & My
Verdict
Richie Laryea was a winter window signing. He came to the club in January with a good reputation and international experience with
Canada. Sadly he's only made 5 appearances playing less than 200 minutes. So from a data perspective, we can't take many views on
his time with us so far.
From the little we have seen, he's offered good energy and a willingness to run and get in behind the opposition defence. Looking at
his time in the MLS and his games with Canada, he looks to be a confident ball carrier, who is capable of going inside or down the line.
He's also versatile, and has played LWB, RWB, RB, and also as a winger when required.
I appreciate it's been difficult for him to get an opportunity ahead of Spence, however given his versatility I've found it a surprise that
he hasn't had a few more games ahead of make-shift left wing back, Jack Colback. However, I do also understand you need a balance
in the side and playing both Spence and Laryea could be too risky. Taking the above into account I personally do feel like he has been
signed as a squad option, who may potentially have the upside of being a Championship starter if deemed good enough.
Fin Back is an excellent young player. He's confident in possession of the ball, and can be a creative threat with an excellent delivery.
You can see all of this from his performances with the U23s this season. He's got a great future ahead of him and I'll be looking
forward to seeing his development.
Verdict: If at all possible Forest should sign Djed Spence, but should also have contingency plans for a 1st team starter should that
not be an option. Laryea is the squad option, with Back getting more first team environment experience this season.
Left Wingback - Max Lowe
Max Lowe is another loan player who has shown promise this season. The
frustration with him is his availability. He's been injured for more games than
he has played this season.
When he has played, he has showed his defensive awareness and ability to
read a game which comes through in his defensive positioning, which is
excellent. With the way Forest play with Djed Spence on the other flank you
need to have balance, and Lowe has offered that.
His numbers don't show it here, but he's been surprisingly useful in the final
third with linking the play. Forest fans have missed him at times when we've
had to play Jack Colback in the wingback.
Injuries are the real issue here, and this is the cause of concern about
wanting to sign Max permanently. He's still a Sheffield United player though
and he's under contract until 2024 there. He's a player who will offer Forest
good experience, and understanding of both sides of the game, and the
ability to play in this wingback role.
You have to feel Forest might be better looking elsewhere, or at the least
looking for another option alongside Max.
Left Wingback - Jack Colback, Gaetan
Bong & My Verdict
You just can't really fault Colback. Without him Forest would have really
struggled at LWB this season. Of course, he isn't a wing back. His best
position is in midfield and Forest have missed him in that role at times. Cooper
liked to go with Yates and Colback with Garner in the attacking midfield role in
some of the bigger games this season. In those games Colback was very
good, physical, broke up play and retained the ball well. Everything you would
want from a centre midfielder.
At left wingback it's a different story for Colback. He's mainly used for stability
to allow Spence to get high and wide. He rarely takes the chance to progress
the ball into the final third, nor is he very active in final third.
He retains the ball well and is used to play balls into the middle third linking
the play with the midfielders who are then the creators and ball progressors.
Finally, Gaetan Bong's contract expires this summer, and he's one to forget
about.
Verdict: Sign a new LWB to replace Max Lowe. Release Gaetan Bong.
Centre Midfield - Ryan Yates
Well well well, I've been waiting to write this page for months. My support
for Yates has been there since he came into the side. This season he's made
it into team of the season, and I feel vindicated!
He's also gone from fans being on his back most weeks, to everyone
chanting his name. What a season he has had, what a revelation he's been
under Cooper.
Technically speaking Yates does have his limitations. But play to his
strengths, and you have a top player and a top professional. There is a
reason why all the recent Forest managers have played him, and that's
because he works incredibly hard.
He's defensively very good, he shows good positioning, aerially he's
immense and he's an attacking threat. He's also notched up eight league
goals in the regular season this year, his best return yet.
In possession, he can improve, and this is where he is limited. But with the
majority of the ball progression coming from the wide defenders or
wingbacks in Forest system, his ball ability hasn't been a problem. Another
player with their best season to date for Forest.
Centre Midfield - James Garner
James Garner signed on loan for a full season this year, once again he's
been a success, and I don't feel his numbers quite do him justice.
Clearly he's creative looking at his expected assist numbers (0.2 xA per
90). His creativity largely comes from set-pieces rather than open play
though. To his credit, Forest have scored 15 goals from set pieces this
season. That is nearly double the amount of last season, and Garner's
delivery is a large part of that.
Garner is a tenacious midfielder who works hard out of possession. He's
shown this through his recovery runs and off the ball actions which don't
come through in the data here.
He retains the ball well, and is safe in possession, but his best work comes
off the ball. In the 3-4-1-2 system, Forest don't rely on that ball
progression from the centre midfielders so it isn't really a problem.
I'm not convinced that Garner will make the grade at Manchester United.
This is not to say he won't have a good career though, probably in the
Premier League.
Centre Midfield - Cafu, Ojeda, Hammond
& My Verdict
I had to check twice to see the number of minutes Cafu has played this season. In my head I thought it was a lot more than the 400 or
so. The minutes he has played have likely come due to Colback having to play LWB so much. I believe Cafu is fine as a fourth choice
midfielder in a system which plays with just two. However, I do feel he is a squad option at best and has his limitations.
I'm often unsure what Cafu offers to the side. He can show some good technical qualities in possession, being able to take on and go
past a player. However, this is overshadowed by his lack of work rate and sloppy, lack of consistency with the ball at his feet. As a
squad option he is fine given he has one year left on his deal.
Braian Ojeda was signed from Olimpia in Paraguay last summer. Sadly he's only played a couple hundred minutes, which isn't a
surprise for a 21 year old adapting to a new country and culture. He's a Paraguayan international, and has a real technical ability. Ball
progression is his game, but I do wonder how he fits into this side and how he will cope with the physicality of England. He's one to
see how he develops next season.
Oliver Hammond is a Wales U21 international and has continued to show his progression this season. He's a well rounded midfielder
who is secure in possession, has a good work rate and good defensive awareness.
Verdict: Talks with Manchester United to see if we can secure Garner, however shortlist options for replacements. Cafu and Ojeda
still squad options for next season, but that depends on what Ojeda shows in pre-season, he may need a loan. Depending on his,
development look to offer Hammond a new deal and look to secure loan move.
Attacking Midfield - Philip Zinckernagel
Zinckernagel has been an excellent addition to this side. His work rate and
intensity is needed in this Cooper system particularly from the attacking
midfielder. He ranks 11th in the league for pressures with 23.2 per 90, which
highlights his pressing game.
In possession Zinckernagel is a high volume shooter, who shows good
dribbling ability. In fairness to him, he is a well rounded attacking midfielder
in all aspects from being an attacking threat to being solid in possession.
His best moments have often come when playing in the those central areas,
he can play wide when required but I feel in sometimes struggles to get into
the game. If I'm being critical, I feel he could improve his consistency in
regards to his creative output and performance levels. This being said he's a
solid player across all areas who works incredibly hard for the team.
With Watford being back in the Championship this season and looking for a
new manager it's hard to say what is going to happen with Zinckernagel.
He's also under contract there until 2026. Whatever happens, Forest should
be in for him this summer, and it seems like he has loved his time here. He
would be an excellent permanent addition to the squad side in my eyes.
Attacking Midfield - Joe Lolley
Joe Lolley has had another stop start season in the most part. He's
struggled with an injury during the middle part of the season, and has
found himself getting most of his minutes from the bench during the end
of the season.
In the limited minutes he has played, he has shown some promising
displays. You're always going to get the work rate from Joe. He's also been
adapting to a new system and different role as an attacking midfielder. As
a result he has shown some inconsistencies with final ball, link play and
deliveries into the box.
In general his performances have been full of energy from the bench, but
he's mainly played when the game has been stretched allowing him more
space to be creative and drive at opposition. We've also seen Lolley fill in
different positions this season including at LB and LWB.
I'd be hoping that a full pre-season and a regular run in the side would
help Lolley no end. However, given he's probably a better wide player, and
that Forest will be looking to improve their squad, Lolley might find regular
starting minutes hard to come by next season.
Attacking Midfield / Wingers -
Mighten, Silva, Konate & My Verdict
Alex Mighten has suffered with a lack of minutes this season. This can be attributed to quality in the side, but also the change in
system where Forest no longer use wingers. Mighten is a very quick winger, who likes to have space to run into with the ball and take
opponents on. Towards the end of the season we've seen him play in the front two, this is okay when the game is stretched open, but I
feel Mighten lacks the positioning or off the ball movement to play this role regularly at this moment in time. We'll have to see what the
clubs plans are with him next season, perhaps a loan move.
Xande Silva is in a similar situation but he is probably more comfortable at playing in the forward line than Mighten. He has shown
some moments this season, again largely when the game is stretched allowing him to get beyond the line. He does have better
movement in the final third and around the box though. Due to him playing just 260 minutes and starting 2 games it's hard to get a
handle on his ability.
Ateef Konate was signed from Le Harve in 2020, he's a very talented attacking midfielder / winger. He's got the ability to turn a player
inside out, and is great at carrying the ball. He's got 14 goal involvements with the U23s this season, and he goes into the last year of
his deal next season. For all his positives he can be incredibly frustrating, and sometimes show a lack of work rate or discipline. He
could be a great player, but is he capable of playing regular first team football in England? I'm not so sure.
Verdict: Zinckernagel all depends if he is in Watford's plans, which given their new manager and length of Zinck's deal he will be.
We need to profile some potential replacements. See how Silva and Lolley perform next season as squad players, Mighten likely
needs minutes through loan move, continue to track Konate's development, but I think he will leave at the end of his deal.
Forward - Brennan Johnson
Brennan Johnson had quite the first full senior season with Forest. He won
Championship young player of the year, and it is clear to see why.
Johnson has showcased his ball carrying and creative threat all season. With
16 league goals and 9 assists it's a great return for someone who wasn't an
out and out forward. He's used in the front to to help stretch the line, but is
also an outlet in that right channel, often linking up with Djed Spence.
You could argue he is slightly over-performing with his expected goals and
finishing ability this season, it'll be interesting to see if he can keep that up
over a longer period of time.
Johnson is still developing though, there have been times where he has
struggled to get into games, especially against tight and compact teams as
he is much better playing on the break. There is still more to come from him.
The big question about Brennan is his contract. He's goes into the last year
of his current deal this summer and Forest need to tie him down to a new
deal. Promotion to the Premier League should help with those contract
negotiations, but I'm also sure Forest will have scoped out some contingency
plans should they need them.
Forward - Keinan Davis
Keinan Davis changed the game for Forest since coming in. A loan move
which saw Forest fans interested, but honestly, probably not that excited.
Ultimately not a lot of people knew much about his level, and playing
ability given he hadn't played that much for Aston Villa.
Well he's been fantastic, and he was probably a big miss in those last
couple of weeks. Quite simply, Davis does everything, and does everything
well as you can tell from his chart, particularly in possession.
His main strengths lie in being able to get Forest up the pitch. That can be
through his tremendous ball carrying ability, his hold up and link up play or
even his athletic ability to chase the ball into the channels. Combine this
with the fact he's a creative, goalscoring threat and you've got one hell of a
player.
Whatever happens this summer, Forest should be all in on Davis in my
opinion. He's got an incredible, well rounded game and you feel he is very
well suited to this Steve Cooper system. I personally think it would be very
hard to find another forward similar to Davis. There aren't many of them
about. He's been a great signing, and let's hope Aston Villa fancy cashing
in on him.
Forward - Sam Surridge
Sam Surridge represented more good transfer business this year. He started
to have a real impact coming off the bench scoring goals, before getting into
the starting XI regularly following Davis' injury at towards the end of the
season.
Surridge is more of a deep-lying forward, someone who likes to play on the
shoulder, rather than someone who is there to link play. He shows some
really good movement, and is capable of intelligent runs.
His finishing ability has proved to be fairly decent, and this was an area of his
game which was heavily criticised by Stoke City fans. This is something
which I feel he could still improve on though, sometimes he can be seen to
snatch or rush a finish, much like the one against Bournemouth away.
Overall though he's been fairly impressive, and Forest should be pleased to
have picked up an improving young forward for just a couple of million. In
this Forest side to have three different forwards with complementary profiles
is only a good thing.
Despite the uncertainty of the other forwards at the club, one thing we know
is Surridge will be here next season.
Forward - Lewis Grabban & My Verdict
Lewis Grabban started the season as the main striker and ends it fourth
choice. He's now an old head, experienced striker who on his day showcases
his excellent finishing ability, then other days he struggles to influence the
game.
Ultimately if you play a system which is going to get Grabban the ball inside
the box, you have a goalscorer. However, this Forest team has evolved to be
more than a side who is set up to serve one forward. They're a dynamic
team, with multiple threats, and I don't feel Grabban is best suited for it.
I think Grabban struggles to consistently bring others into the game, and his
movement at times can be adequate at best. He's coming to the twilight of
his career, and he's out of contract this summer. It doesn't make sense for
him to get a new deal, unless it's short term, on reduced terms and Grabban
is aware he'll be a squad player. All of which I'm unsure that he wants.
Verdict: Do whatever it takes to sign Keinan Davis on a permanent deal,
offer Brennan Johnson a new deal if it is possible to get agreeable terms,
which should be more attainable now with promotion. Look to scope out
potential replacements if needed though. Release Lewis Grabban.
Loan Player Round-Up
Tyrese Fornah - Shrewsbury Town
Tyrese Fornah's loan move to Shrewsbury always felt like one I didn't
understand. Mainly because I didn't think Shrewsbury were a great fit due to
their playing style, they're not a ball playing side and they see little possession
of the ball. In my head, it feels like Shrewsbury Town were one of the only
clubs in for Tyrese, and we needed to get him playing time.
Despite the data not being very good, at all really, Shrewsbury fans have been
quite pleased with how Fornah has got on since joining in January. It sounds
like they were impressed with his ball retention and ability to move play
quickly. His performance against Rotherham away was particularly
impressive. This being said he did struggle at times when being pressured
quickly, which forced turnovers in possession.
Having seen a fair bit of Tyrese mainly in the U23s, I think he has a lot of good
skills including ball retention, press resistance and his athletic qualities. One
area I thought he could improve was his aerial ability. Which is up from
45.78% last season with Plymouth to 50% with Shrewsbury, so that's
pleasing. At 22 years old, and with 2 years left on his deal, Forest have got an
important decision to make.
Verdict: Another loan for Fornah isn't optimal, assess how he gets on in preseason,
gut feel is that he could be on the move.
Jayden Richardson - Notts County
Jayden Richardson is a player Forest fans know a lot about, he's had three loan
moves now, two to League Two sides where he's been involved in promotionchasing
teams. Then this season he went to Notts County, so clearly should be
standing out in the National League as a good player, which he is.
Richardson is a wingback who loves to carry the ball and get forward. He
possesses a great dribbling ability, and Notts County have been utilising it well,
almost having him as a winger in possession, with one of the midfielders
dropping wide to cover the space behind him.
He's been creative, he links play well and he's an attacking threat himself. He
probably should have got himself some more goal involvements this season.
There will soon be a decision on Richardson, as I believe he is out of contract
this summer (but he could have one more year left). As fantastic as he has been
on his loan spells, I just get the impression he's not quite at the Championship
level. He'd be a good 1st team player at League Two, perhaps a squad player at
League One level.
Verdict: If his contract is up this summer, I'd look to release.
Lyle Taylor - Birmingham City
Taylor spent the second half of the season out on loan with Birmingham City,
where, in fairness, he scored a fair few goals. You had to feel that Bower
would be able to get the best out of him following his Charlton days.
Taylor for me has never really worked out at Forest. I felt like a rushed signing
following a few good performances against us, and he was on a free.
Ultimately I just think he doesn't suit Forest's style of play he's not a massively
mobile forward, nor does he have the link up play or aerial ability to bring
others into play. I feel Taylor is best when he plays in a front two as a strike
partnership.
He's a hard worker, and he'll make runs and put defenders under pressure.
But similar to Grabban, I feel you need to play him in the correct system and
style to get the most of him.
With one year left on his deal, and in the current setup Taylor would look at
being the fourth choice forward, it's probably best we look to move on.
Verdict: Look to negotiate a mutual termination of current contract with one
year left on his deal.
Nicholas Ioannou - Como
Ioannou was signed in 2020 from APOEL, and in fairness to him he's not
really had a fair crack at the whip. He made just five appearances for Forest
last season before being sent out on loan to Aris last January.
From the few minutes he played that season for Forest he looked like he had
something to offer from an attacking and defensive point of view. He's also
got a good athletic build.
He's spent the season in the Serie B with Como where he has mainly played
as a LB in a flat back four. Defensively his numbers have been very pretty
decent. Despite not being the most progressive defender in the league he
has shown some really good creativity numbers with expected assists and
key passes.
Ioannou is in a weird situation, he's been at the club for nearly a couple of
years yet only made 5 appearances. I'd like Cooper to have a look at him in
pre-season given he has another year left on his deal. He could add some
squad depth in that LWB rather than having to rely on Colback.
Verdict: Review Ioannou in pre-season with a view to him being a squad
choice LWB or moved on.
Mohamed Dräger - Luzern
Well this one has to be put down as another strange signing from abroad. The
player barely even got into Nottingham before he was sent on his way again
out on loan.
He is the type of player who would fit the current system. Drager is ball
carrying defender who likes to get into the attacking third. You can see that
from his time at Luzern, and from the limited time he has had with Forest.
His problems for me, however, come off the ball and defensively. Having seen
him in the U23s, his tendencies to switch off, and show signs of regular
frustration, which are not a good sign. Of course, recently signing for a club
and hardly getting a kick is going to be frustrating, but for however good he is
at dribbling and carrying the ball forwards, his body language and work ethic
just seems off.
His deal with Luzern does include an option to buy, his current deal with
Forest was undisclosed so I'm unsure as to the length of that deal. But given
Luzern could buy him if they want to in the summer, you have to think that
Drager will be moved on in the summer, one way or the other.
Verdict: Look to sell / move on Drager in the summer be that to Luzern or
another club.
Nuno da Costa - Caen
Nuno da Costa has actually had a pretty decent season with Caen in Ligue 2.
He's scored nine goals and grabbed four assists, and across the board his
numbers are encouraging.
In possession he's been solid, he looks to be a good focal point, drawing
fouls and being creative for his teammates, along with show some decent
defensive numbers with aerial duels won and interceptions.
I do have some concerns around his attacking numbers. His conversion rate
of 23.08% is one of the highest in the league, alongside the fact he's scored
9 goals from just 5.97 xG suggest his run this season probably isn't
sustainable.
He's 31 years old though, he's got one year left on his deal this summer, and
whilst I do think he is a better option than Lyle Taylor in the current Forest
system, I suspect that da Costa will end up on his way out of Forest as well
this summer. I do wonder if it would be interesting for Cooper to have a look
at him in pre-season though.
Verdict: Look to move on in the summer with one year left on his deal.
Harry Arter - Notts County
I never will understand what has gone on with Forest and Harry Arter. I'm
not sure how a player can go from being a Premier League regular to
going on loan to the National League in the space of five seasons.
Whatever has gone on its a poor situation for both player and club. His
radar on the right is a small sample size, he played just over 600 mins for
Notts after joining them in March.
You'd expect Arter's numbers to paint the picture that he is a level above
the National League, and they do, particularly in possession. This came
through in some of his performances where he did show a good passing
ability and range, but little off the ball in regards to defensive work.
Arter has one year left on his deal with Forest, and given the wages he is
on, it wouldn't be surprising if he wanted to stay and see out that final
year. Forest however will be desperate to see him move on and to free up
some more wages, but I guess that will all come down to how much Arter
wants to move on and perhaps start somewhere fresh.
Verdict: Move Arter on, try to negotiate ending his current deal.
Transfer Targets
Transfer Briefing
I could try and offer my thoughts around budgets, and what we have to spend this summer, but if I did that I would
be guessing. Winning the richest game in football does allow you to have some more spending power though, and
that will be reflected in my transfer targets.
It's going to be a busy summer with Forest needing to replace or sign permanently the five key loan players who
were instrumental to our promotion. Combine that with the couple of squad and fringe players being out of
contract, and it's going to be a lively summer.
The good news is that Forest will likely fight off the interest in key players such as Joe Worrall, and more
importantly Brennan Johnson, who we all really expect to sign a new contract if terms can be agreed. This being
said I will still be discussing potential replacements for those players should they unexpectedly leave this summer.
Where possible I would also like to recommend at least one player with Premier League experience per position. It
is going to be important for Forest to have players with the know-how of the top flight.
For the record, I think Forest might need 9 or 10 signings, possible a few more, when you think about two LWBs,
maybe another centre back an so on. Due to the size the document I haven't discussed all of these, as I thought 75
pages was long enough.
Transfer Briefing
In summary I believe we should be looking at the following positions this summer transfer window:
Right Wingback - Djed Spence ideally, which is more realistic following promotion. But given the interest we should have a
contingency plan in place.
Centre Back - Here we need a contingency plan for Joe Worrall, although he should stay. Along with a backup to improve
the squad depth, one which will replace Tobias Figueiredo should he leave following his contract expiring this summer.
Left Wingback - A new first choice LWB. Perhaps with the addition of Max Lowe permanently.
Centre Midfield - James Garner ideally, but we need a plan B here. Perhaps another midfielder as well for squad depth also.
Attacking Midfielder - Philip Zinckernagel replacement. As it sounds like he could be in Watford's plans next season.
Forward - Keinan Davis ideally, but again need a contingency plan here. Another squad option forward to replace Grabban
who is out of contract this summer.
Forward - Brennan Johnson to stay and sign a new contract. However, we'll have a look at some contingency options just in
case.
Right Wingback
Djed Spence is our priority, and we should do everything possible to sign him. However, there will
be competition for his signature.
If we are unable to sign him, here are some possible contingency plan options.
Neco WILLIAMS
Age: Twenty-One
Club: Liverpool (Loan: Fulham)
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £15m
Height: 5ft 9"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/25
Est Wages: £16k p/w
Positives
Top rated young player with a high
ceiling, and only going to improve.
Well rounded, and offers a lot of
different qualities in the right
channel.
Progresses the ball through passing
ability as well as runs.
Unlikely to get regular game time in
Liverpool's first team.
Negatives
Fee would be very substantial.
Fulham are interested so would be
a battle for his signature.
Summary
Williams would be an ambitious target, and perhaps out of our reach? However,
he's one of the few players in the Championship with a similar profile to Spence.
He has many areas of quality to his game, he'll continue to develop, and he
probably offers more than Spence. My number one target to replace Spence.
Angelo PRECIADO
Age: Twenty-Four
Club: KRC Genk
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £4m
Height: 5ft 8"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/23*
Est Wages: £9k p/w
Positives
He has rounded game, with an
excellent work rate and intensity.
Excellent acceleration and ball
carrying ability, with runs in beyond
the defence.
Links the game well down the right
channel.
Defensively he does his bit, with
good recovery runs.
Negatives
KRC Genk have a two year
extension option to his current
deal which expires in 2023.
Only signed for Genk in January
2021, so perhaps doesn't want to
move yet.
Summary
Preciado is one player I talked about earlier in the year as a Spence replacement.
He could be a risk with not having any playing experience in England, but the
numbers and the eye test back up his ability. He certainly would be one on my list
should we be unable to sign Spence. He has a lot of the same qualities.
Max AARONS
Age: Twenty-Two
Club: Norwich City
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £18m
Height: 5ft 8"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £25k p/w
Positives
Highly rated young player with
plenty of development left.
Has put up good numbers in a poor
Norwich side. Ranks 11th on my
attacking fullback / wingback ratings.
Excellent ball carrier that likes to play
high up the pitch.
80+ Premier League appearances.
Negatives
Likely going to be of interest from
other clubs following Norwich's
relegation.
Would be a very large fee, and you
would hope Spence would be
attainable for less.
Summary
As a premium option to replace Spence, I think Aarons would be perfect for this
side. He's an attacking fullback who could quite easily play the wingback role. The
fee needed is going to be large though, and there are already number clubs
tracking Aarons. As a result this target is likely a bit of a push.
Issa KABORÉ
Age: Twenty-One
Club: Troyes (Loan: Manchester City)
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £6m
Height: 5ft 10"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/25
Est Wages: £10k p/w
Positives
Seriously quick ball carrier, who has
a good delivery.
Experience of playing in Belgium and
France already.
Seems to be better suited in a
wingback role.
Fairly strong given his pace.
Likes to hug the touch line and keep
lots of width.
Negatives
Can be rushed in his delivery or
pass which is reflected in his ball
retention numbers.
Defensively poor in 1v1 duels,
doesn't read situations well. Pace
gets him out of a lot of situations.
Summary
Kaboré was mentioned in the recruitment plan last year, but his loan move to
Troyes was arranged. He is still of interest and offers some nice quality going
forward. I have my concerns defensively though, he can be beaten, quite easily at
times. Play him in the right system though and he could be an option.
Centre Back
Here we have the potential targets as Joe Worral replacements. These are purely for contingency
planning purposes. However, I don't expect us to lose Joe Worrall following promotion.
These players may also be interesting following the expiration of Tobias Figueiredo's contract,
should we not look to offer him a new deal.
Joe RODON
Age: Twenty-Four
Club: Tottenham Hotspur
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £7m
Height: 6ft 3"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/25
Est Wages: £26k p/w
Positives
Still a young player and can improve
further
Good relationship with Steve Cooper
from his time at Swansea.
Premier League experience, but also
in the need of minutes so likely
wants a move.
He's secure in possession, and
progressed the ball well at Swansea.
Negatives
Would he see Forest too much of
a step down after joining Spurs?
Only played 100 minutes in the
league this season, would need a
full pre-season under his belt to hit
the ground running.
Would potentially need to take a
pay cut.
Summary
Rodon was a standout player in the Championship with Swansea. He was an
excellent ball progressor through runs and passes with his time there. It's not
worked out at Spurs, and he's likely wanting to leave for regular minutes. Cooper
has a relationship with him and that could make him an attractive signing.
Ben WILMOT
Age: Twenty-Two
Club: Stoke City
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £5m
Height: 6ft 2"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/25
Est Wages: £9.5k p/w
Positives
Comfortable in a back three.
Similar profile to Joe Worrall, but
looks to play the ball forward more.
Offers progression through ball
carries and passing ability.
Good age and fits the recruitment
strategy
Likely to have a good resale
potential.
Negatives
Only signed for Stoke last summer.
Under contract until 2025, so will
be tough to negotiate a deal, and
would command a sizeable fee.
He could retain the ball better in
general.
Summary
Wilmot is an exciting player and Watford should be regretting selling him last
summer. He's had a decent season with Stoke and has put up some good
numbers too. He's going to continue to improve, and would be a player with a
good ceiling to step up to the Premier League.
Nathan COLLINS
Age: Twenty-One
Club: Burnley
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £12m
Height: 6ft 4"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/25*
Est Wages: £20k p/w
Positives
A solid breakout Premier League
season for a team that got relegated.
Has shown the ability to progress
the ball well from the back through
runs and passes.
Fits in with the recruitment ethos of
younger players who can develop.
Offer an attacking threat from set
pieces.
Negatives
Burnley will not want to sell.
Under a long contract with
Burnley having an option for a
further year.
Newcastle United are reportedly
interested.
Summary
Collins is likely to be a man in demand, and an expensive one at that. This is very
ambitious and perhaps unrealistic, but if Forest are looking to upgrade and futureproof
their backline they should look no further. He's had some real bright sparks
in a relegated side. It'll be interesting to see where he ends up if he moves on.
Rob DICKIE
Age: Twenty-Six
Club: QPR
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £5m
Height: 6ft 3"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £12k p/w
Positives
Very similar profile on the data to
Worrall.
Experienced, but ready for the step
up into the Premier League.
Comfortable in playing a back three
or four.
Confident in possession and retains
the ball well.
Solid aerial presence.
Negatives
Has another two years on his
contract.
Summary
Dickie is ready for a step up, and he could be a good option to replace Worrall,
should he leave. He has a very similar profile across all areas, he plays in a back
three, and has an excellent aerial ability. He's 26 and will be getting into his peak
years with his next move, and it would be a good fit for Forest.
Left Wingback
Colback has done very well at covering in the left wingback position for large parts of this season. Lowe
has struggled with injuries at times, and as a result I would be looking to sign a new first choice left
wingback.
I will be looking for more of a balanced wingback to who is both defensively solid but able to get forward.
As a need balance on the left if we have an attacking right wingback.
Josh DOIG
Age: Twenty
Club: Hibernian
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £5m
Height: 6ft 2"
Pref Foot: Left
Contract Expires: 30/06/25
Est Wages: £10k p/w
Positives
Would offer the flexibility of playing
a back four, or potential cover at
LCB.
Balanced and would offer stability
on the other flank to an attacking
RWB.
Despite being more of a balanced
player, he offers good ball carrying.
Future with sell on potential.
Negatives
Could be more creative given his
position.
Would stepping up to a Premier
League be too big of a jump?
Long contract and Hibernian are
difficult to negotiate with.
Summary
Doig has been a player on people's lips for a while now. He would offer Forest
both stability and a ball carrying threat on the left flank. Hibernian are a
notoriously difficult to negotiate with though and he has a contract until 2025. He
certainly fits the bill for the new recruitment strategy though.
Maximilian MITTELSTÄDT
Age: Twenty-Five
Club: Hertha Berlin
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £5m
Height: 5ft 11"
Pref Foot: Left
Contract Expires: 30/06/23
Est Wages: £25k p/w
Positives
Experience of playing at a high level
in the Bundesliga.
Offers both an attacking threat and
defensive stability.
Can play most roles in the left
channel.
One year left on his deal after a poor
Hertha season, so might want a new
challenge.
Negatives
His current wages at Hertha are
quite high so would require a large
financial package.
Potentially would need a decent
fee despite being in final year of
contract.
Could improve his ball retention
numbers.
Summary
Mittelstädt would be a statement of intent. He has experience of a high level in
the Bundesliga, but played in relegation battle last season. Given his ability and
still only being 25 with one year left on his deal he might well fancy a new
challenge.
Charlie TAYLOR
Age: Twenty-Eight
Club: Burnley
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £3.5m
Height: 6ft
Pref Foot: Left
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £25k p/w
Positives
Premier League experience and
knows what it takes to stay up.
Has a relatively balanced ability
which will compliment Forest's
attacking right side.
Ratings suggest he's an average
Premier League level fullback in a
relegated side.
Negatives
Wages could be seen as high for a
28 year old.
I don't see Burnley wanting to sell
Taylor.
Would have to adapt to a slightly
different role.
Summary
Taylor is a different option, but given his Premier League experience and ability to
offer balance he might be an interesting option. His wages are higher than I
expected, and I don't see Burnley wanting to lose him, so again this suggestion
might be a push. But with Forest needing experience, he could be worth a shout.
Conor TOWNSEND
Age: Twenty-Nine
Club: West Brom
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £2.5m
Height: 6ft
Pref Foot: Left
Contract Expires: 30/06/25
Est Wages: £16k p/w
Positives
Comfortable in numerous positions
and would offer flexibility.
Solid both defensively and aerially.
Previous Premier League experience.
Has the ability to be a good ball
progressor through passes.
Negatives
His age wouldn't be in line with
recruitment policy.
Wages are quite high for someone
from the Championship.
Would have to adapt to a new
playing style.
His contract with West Brom is
until 2025.
Summary
Townsend is realistically one Forest won't be interested in, but he's an option that
would offer something different to this Forest side. He's got previous Premier
League experience, he can play in numerous positions, and he's solid defensively.
His contract and age is an issue which will probably put Forest off though.
Centre Midfield
All Forest fans would like to sign James Garner again, I think that is a realistic shout as I don't see
him getting into the Manchester United team. But if he isn't possible we will look elsewhere.
We also potentially need another midfielder to offer squad depth. So here are my options.
Gustavo Hamer
Age: Twenty-Four
Club: Coventry City
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £6.5m
Height: 5ft 7"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £12k p/w
Positives
Excellent season in the
championship.
Forward thinking passer who is also
creative.
Hamer is tenacious and has an
excellent work rate.
He's a high volume shooter and
offers an attacking threat.
Ready for another step up.
Negatives
Under contract for another two
years.
Coventry will be very reluctant to
sell.
Summary
Hamer has been a standout player in the Championship this season. He's a real
battler, who loves to get on the ball. He has a very similar profile to James Garner,
but is more of a ball player. He won't be cheap and Coventry won't want to lose
him, but I feel he's ready for a step up and would be an excellent addition.
Cheick DOUCOURÉ
Age: Twenty-Two
Club: RC Lens
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £15m
Height: 5ft 11"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £16k p/w
Positives
Offers very good ball progression
and composure on the ball.
Has a good physical and athletic
ability.
Wins his fair share of defensive
duels.
Young age and only going to
continue to improve.
Likely have good resale value.
Negatives
Already scouted by other Premier
League clubs so there will be
fierce competition for his
signature.
Does get caught in possession
from time to time.
Summary
Doucouré is a seriously promising midfielder who has had an excellent season
with RC Lens. He's an athletic ball carrier and passer, who is able to constantly
break lines. He's not the finished article, but he could develop into a serious
player. There are plenty of clubs already interested, so the fee won't be cheap.
Josh CULLEN
Age: Twenty-Six
Club: RSC Anderlecht
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £6m
Height: 5ft 9"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/23
Est Wages: £15k p/w
Positives
Excellent ball player that retains
possession but also breaks the lines.
Cullen has a great work rate and
intensity to his game.
European and international
experience.
Into the last year of his current
contract, so might fancy the move
back to the UK.
Negatives
Might see Forest as a step down
given his European football
experience in Belgium.
Likely will have interest from other
Premier League sides.
Summary
I've been an admirer of Cullen for years now. He's a dream of a midfielder due to
his work rate and ball playing ability. He's now into his final year of his current
deal and might well want to move back to the UK, as a result he should very much
be on Forest's list. He does a lot of what Garner does and more.
Sander BERGE
Age: Twenty-Four
Club: Sheffield United
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £18m
Height: 6ft 4"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £35k p/w
Positives
Premier League and international
experience.
Standout performer in the
Championship.
Creative and attacking threat from
midfield.
Likely going to move this summer
with him wanting top flight football.
Negatives
Might be hard to compete for him
with surely plenty of clubs
interested.
Will demand a large fee given
Sheffield United spent £20m.
Summary
Berge would be a statement of intent, and a real coup. Very impressive in the
Championship and he'll be wanting top flight football asap. It probably is a push
to see him come to Forest. But in the midfielder role he would fit perfectly with
Forest's style of play. Likely unrealistic, but if he becomes available....
Attacking Midfielder
Depending on the fee needed to sign Philip Zinckernagel, we may be looking to sign him. However
it seems Forest will still be looking at other options regardless of if we sign him or not.
So here are some options for the attacking midfield role.
Morgan GIBBS-WHITE
Age: Twenty-Two
Club: Wolves (Loan: Sheff Utd)
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £20m
Height: 5ft 10"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £22k p/w
Positives
Incredibly versatile, able to play to a
high level in multiple positions.
Would be seen as a coup for Forest
and a statement of intent.
Would offer great competition for
the first team.
Ready for regular Premier League
minutes.
Serious creative threat.
Negatives
Might be difficult to sell him on
Forest with other Premier League
clubs interested.
Summary
I couldn't think of another player more well suited for Forest. He's able to play in
numerous positions, he's ready for regular Premier League football, and he would
be a massive signing. He's creative, works hard and fits the bill as someone with
sell-on potential. He would be a must sign for Forest if at all possible.
Joe ROTHWELL
Age: Twenty-Seven
Club: Free Agent
Nationality:
Est Market Value: N/A
Height: 6ft 1"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: N/A
Est Wages: £14k p/w
Positives
Excellent ball carrying ability, which
is different to what we have
currently.
Able to play in an attacking midfield
or deeper role.
Very creative, and excellent at the
ball into dangerous areas.
Ready for a step up into the Premier
League
Negatives
Plenty of interest from other clubs.
Likely to demand a sizeable wage
increase and signing bonus.
Defensive numbers can be
improved.
Summary
Rothwell will be a man in demand this summer following his contract expiring at
Blackburn. His versatility makes him an attractive proposition, as well as his
creativity. His defensive numbers could be better, and that would be an area of
improvement, but perhaps why he might be better as a CAM in the Prem.
Callum O'HARE
Age: Twenty-Four
Club: Coventry City
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £5m
Height: 5ft 9"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £13k p/w
Positives
Excellent season in the
Championship.
Goal threat that wins a lot of fouls.
Would be more of a creative threat
than Zinckernagel.
Has a good work rate and would
offer a good defensive ability.
Negatives
Coventry unlikely to sell all three of
their key players this summer.
Would a step up the Premier
League be a big jump?
Likely would need a decent fee to
sign him, and would it be worth
the risk?
Summary
O'Hare is one of the attacking midfielders with a very similar profile to
Zinckernagel, but he offers more creativity. He wins a lot of fouls, and offers a
similar attacking threat to Zinckernagel. He could be a risk in regards to him
stepping up to the Premier League, so his signing would depend on the fee.
Forward
Forest should be doing whatever possible to sign Keinan Davis permanently. His skillset is unique
and one which isn't easily replaceable.
Here are some contingency options for Davis should we be unable to sign him.
Antoine SEMENYO
Age: Twenty-Two
Club: Bristol City
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £12m
Height: 5ft 10"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/23*
Est Wages: £15k p/w
Positives
Somewhat a similar profile to what
Forest have already.
Natural athletic ability and strong.
He's creative as well as a
goalscoring threat.
Will continue to develop and
improve his ability. Meaning there is
re-sale value.
Negatives
Could improve his ability to hold
up the ball.
Under contract for another season,
with Bristol City having a further
optional year, this will result in a
sizeable fee.
Another season in the
Championship would likely be
ideal.
Summary
Semenyo doesn't have all the qualities that Davis has, but I feel he could develop
into a similar player. I feel he could use his physical presence better which will be
needed in the Premier League. He's a top prospect though and one that could
develop into a serious player. Depending on the fee he could be an option.
Georginio RUTTER
Age: Twenty
Club: TSG Hoffenheim
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £18m
Height: 6ft
Pref Foot: Left
Contract Expires: 30/06/26
Est Wages: £22k p/w
Positives
Excellent young talent with a very
heigh ceiling.
Quick acceleration, and ball carrying
ability which makes him a threat in
transition.
Rutter has a good work rate out of
possession.
Very well rounded threat in all areas
of his game.
Negatives
He might see Forest as a step
back given he is playing for a top
10 Bundesliga side.
Signed a long contract in 2021.
Would command a big fee and
likely big wage increase to come.
Could bulk out more physically.
Summary
Rutter is a serious talent and one who could develop very quickly. He's an athletic
forward who has U21 caps for France. It's clear to see he is highly rated, and
Hoffenheim will be glad of his long term deal. His current contract makes him very
hard to sign, but he would be one to have serious interest in if available.
Viktor GYÖKERES
Age: Twenty-Three
Club: Coventry City
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £10m
Height: 6ft 2"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £17k p/w
Positives
Similar profile to Davis in physical
and ball carrying ability.
Has the athletic ability to stretch the
line but also hold the play up.
High volume shooter that isn't afraid
to take on opportunities.
Had his best season to date last year
with Coventry.
Negatives
Finishing ability seems to be
inconsistent.
Despite his height he isn't the
most aerially dominant.
Has plenty of interest.
Another season in the
Championship probably best.
Summary
Gyökeres might be someone of interest given he does possess attributes similar
to Davis. His finishing ability is a concern though and he can improve his
consistency. With the fee needed and him needing to step up I do see it as a risk,
but he could well step up and might be worth that risk. He's worth looking at.
Forward
Brennan Johnson has one year left on his current deal, and we of course all want him to sign a new
deal. Premier League football means we should be able to do that.
However you always need contingency plans in place, so here are some potential Brennan Johnson
replacements, should we need them
Loïs OPENDA
Age: Twenty-Two
Club: Club Burgge (Loan: Vitesse)
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £9m
Height: 5ft 9"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £14k p/w
Positives
Excellent season with good
goalscoring form and confidence.
Likes an attacking duel and
opportunities to take on opponents.
Wins a lot of fouls and creates
opportunities for team mates.
Quick in transition and is
comfortable playing in wide areas.
Negatives
Under contract for another two
years with parent team, Club
Brugge.
Tasted European football with
Vitesse so may not want to move
to a newly promoted side.
Summary
Openda has a lot of similar qualities as Brennan Johnson. He's happy to play from
and drift into wide areas with the ball, and he likes to carry the ball and can do so
from deep with purpose. After his good season with Vitesse he could be on the
radar of a lot of clubs. He's one for the future and one to keep an eye on for sure.
Jackson MULEKA
Age: Twenty-Two
Club: Standard Liege (Loan: Kasimpasa)
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £7m
Height: 5ft 11"
Pref Foot: Right
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £11k p/w
Positives
Excellent work rate out of
possession and knows his role with
pressing.
Confident in possession, and likes to
take players on.
Serious goalscoring form whilst on
loan.
Creates chances for his team.
Has the ability to play from wide.
Negatives
Goalscoring performance whilst on
loan is likely over-performance.
Can he translate his ability into the
Premier League?
Summary
Muleka has the dribbling and creative ability of Johnson which is a key part. His
finishing ability from what I've seen, appears to be better. He works hard for his
side, and gets back to do the hard work. I'd be surprised if more clubs aren't
looking at Muleka. He could be one to look at should we lose Brennan Johnson.
Joe GELHARDT
Age: Twenty
Club: Leeds United
Nationality:
Est Market Value: £10m
Height: 5ft 10"
Pref Foot: Left
Contract Expires: 30/06/24
Est Wages: £17k p/w
Positives
Broken into the Leeds United team
and proved himself himself in the
Premier League.
Excellent ball carrying ability.
Constantly wins fouls and helps get
the team up the pitch.
Confident to take on opponents and
have opportunities at goal.
Going to continue to develop.
Negatives
Only had one season in the
Premier League.
Still yet to regularly start and finish
games.
Probably and unrealistic target,
with Leeds unlikely to sell.
Summary
I appreciate this is a very unlikely signing. Leeds will not want to sell, but it would
be one to test the water soon with two years left on his contract. He's one of the
few Premier League forwards with a similar profile to Brennan Johnson. He would
be a risk, but he's an exciting player that fits the bill. Keep your eyes on him.
Long List
Now we're onto the players who didn't make the cut for one reason or another.
I have also included some of the players who would have featured should Forest have not been
promoted through the play-offs. Although these are good players, some of them are not ready for
the step up to the Premier League.
Long List
Right Wingback
Ki-Jana Hoever (Wolves)
Spent a lot of time on the bench this season, ability levels are still unknown. Needs minutes though.
Kane Wilson (Free Agent)
Every club in the Championship will have scouted him. Would be of serious interest in the Championship.
Anthony Ralston (Celtic)
Has everything I'm looking for in a fullback / wingback, but he's contract until 2025 so going to be hard to get him from Celtic.
Ethan Laird (Manchester United)
Laird would be an option for me as a plan further down the line should we not get our main targets. Is he ready for Prem football
though?
Centre Back
Anel Ahmedhodžić (Malmo FF)
One Forest know about, had a good loan with Bordeaux despite being relegated which I believe makes their obligation to buy for €4
million void. I see him more as a central CB though who could cover for Worrall. Would be one hell of signing.
Seep van den Berg (Liverpool)
Another successful loan with Preston, shows his progressive ability and strong in the air. Unsure if he is ready from Prem yet though.
Daniel Ballard (Arsenal)
Arsenal are looking to sell for the right fee, he's had two successful loans and has shown himself as very good Championship CB.
Luke McNally (Oxford United)
I'm a big fan of McNally, just everything you want from a modern day CB, he's ready for the Championship, but not the Prem yet.
Long List
Left Wingback
Ryan Sessegnon (Tottenham Hotspur)
Spent a lot of time on the bench this season, consistent ability levels are still unknown. Needs minutes though.
Callum Styles (Barnsley)
Would have been the smart move for a Championship player. Versatile and has a good ceiling, not for the Prem though.
Souffian El Karouani (NEC Nijmegen)
Well rounded wingback, young prospect with plenty development left. Was on the Championship list.
Mees De Wit (PEC Zwolle)
Similar to the above, but more well rounded and a better ball carrier. One to continue to monitor.
Dwight McNeil (Burnley)
Would absolutely have him in a heartbeat, but a sizeable fee and wages put me off going with him on the list, but would take him all
day.
Jamal Lewis (Newcastle United)
Down the pecking order now at Newcastle, needs to be playing regular minutes but not sold he would be the best fit.
Centre Midfield
Harry Winks (Tottenham Hotspur)
Wages are the concern here, excellent ball playing ability, would really fit the bill, but wages the stumbling block.
Lewis O'Brien (Huddersfield Town)
Excellent player and would add real grit and quality. I would go after O'Brien if we don't get Rothwell, we don't need two ball carriers
from midfield.
Long List
Centre Midfield
Adem Zorgane (Royal Charleroi)
Continue to track, real technical midfielder with a progressive ability from carries and passing, would be one of the top listed players
but he only signed for Charleroi last summer.
Lewis Ferguson (Aberdeen)
Hard grafter in midfield with a real technical ability. Continue to scout as he could play at a high level, Not sure he is Premier League
ready at the moment.
Tommy Doyle (Manchester City)
Similar to the above that he's not ready for the top level yet, had a nice loan with Cardiff, and is ready for a top Championship club
now.
Cameron Brannagan (Oxford United)
Serious technical midfielder who is a creative and goalscoring threat. Would be a real asset for any Championship club.
Forwards
Deniz Undav (Brighton)
Purchased for a fair fee and loaned back to Union Saint Gilloise. Had a monster of a season for goal involvements. Looks to be a
seriously complete forward. Would take him in a heart beat if Brighton want to loan him out again. But it feels unrealistic.
Emmaniel Dennis (Watford)
Proved himself with Watford last season, but he's under a big contract and would be tough to get from Watford. Likely bigger clubs
interested even if that was possible.
Long List
Forwards
Noah Okafor (Red Bull Salzburg)
Potentially could be seriously hot prospect, Looks to have all the aspects of an attacking threat and ball carrying ability. Could demand
a big fee though and as a result I've left him on the longlist.
Taiwo Awoniyi (Union Berlin)
Very well rounded forward with a great work rate. Would be a statement of intent, but feel the wage demands would surpass Forest
at this stage.
Artem Dovbyk (Dynamo Kyiv)
Impressive forward with good goalscoring record, one who might be looking for a move away from the Ukraine League.
Armand Laurienté (Lorient)
Has all the elements to be a Brennan Johnson replacement, but given the fee needed to sign him and question marks about his
finishing ability was enough for him to drop off the list. Keep track of him though.
Chris Willock (QPR)
Pretty positive Willock will play Premier League football, but I feel this might be one for another transfer window. His ability to play a
number of positions is a big bonus as well.
Tyrese Campbell (Stoke City)
One for a Brennan replacement if we didn't get promoted. Injury history is a concern but has a similar profile and a high ceiling. Keep
track of him, and hope we can see a full season from him.
Denis Drăguș (Standard Liege)
Similar to the above, has a distinct profile similar to Brennan Johnson although less creative. Not ready for a big jump in League quality
yet though.
Conclusion
There we have it, the recruitment document finished. If you have made it this far thank you very much for
taking the time to read it. It's been a labour of love but hopefully I've got across some ideas and potential
targets for this summer.
I would normally go into my ideal squad for the next season, however that largely depends on which players
stay, and which loan players we are able to re-sign. Of the players I have suggested there clearly are some
exciting ones: Joe Rodon, Josh Doig, Cheick Doucouré, Morgan Gibbs-White and Georginio Rutter are a few
of my standouts.
Regardless of what happens in the window though, Nottingham Forest are back in the Premier League, and
it's going to be a very busy summer.
If you don't already, drop me a follow on Twitter (@HenshawAnalysis). I'll be sharing all things data on the
new signings at Forest this summer along with the EFL as always, and now the Premier League.
I am also available for freelance or consultancy work, for any enquiries please email me using
henshawanalytics@gmail.com.