Nottingham Forest fans react on Twitter to Aston Villa’s reported interest in Joe Lolley

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Aston Villa are said to be keen to bring Nottingham Forest winger Joe Lolley to Villa Park this summer.

There’s no doubt that the 26-year-old winger would be an astute addition for the newly-promoted club, given his quality. Dean Smith would certainly welcome him to the club with open arms.

According to a report in the Daily Mail, the Villans may have to pay around £10 million if they are to secure his services for next season.

Lolley enjoyed his most productive season to date at the City Ground last time out. Under the management of Aitor Karanka and more recently Martin O’Neill, he scored 11 goals whilst contributing 11 assists. He’ll be desperate to at least match that next season.

It wouldn’t be surprising if he was towards the top of Smith’s list of targets this summer. Given he is a boyhood Villa fan, Lolley may be tempted to make a return to the Premier League.

However, the Reds certainly won’t be willing to offload one of their star performers on the cheap. Given he signed a four-and-a-half-year deal in February, it’s unlikely that £10 million would be enough for them to consider. If Villa were to increase that figure, then the Reds may have some thinking to do.

‘Take that all day’, ‘If Villa want him he’s gone’

Many Forest fans have been left concerned over the prospect of losing their star man. They’ve been sharing their thoughts about a potential departure for Lolley on social media over the last few days.

Irreplaceable

O’Neill will want to improve his squad heading into next season for a stronger push for promotion to the Premier League. If the Reds lose Lolley, then it will be very difficult for him to achieve this.

The Reds have the basis of a very good squad on which to build for next season. There’s no doubt that Lolley is key to that. He is one players that the Reds have at their disposal that could get into every other Championship side. If they are to challenge for promotion, he will be a crucial player.

If Lolley was to join Villa, then it would undoubtedly be a huge loss. O’Neill would have a huge job on his hands to find a replacement. It might not even be possible. But if Villa come up with a big offer, it may be difficult for the club’s hierarchy to turn down.