Everton and Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing up a January move for Nottingham Forest defender Joe Worrall, according to The Mirror (27th November; goals pull-out, page 6)
The 22-year-old has been integral for the Reds this season. He has played every minute of Forest’s league campaign and is an important part of Sabri Lamouchi’s team.
Worrall spent last season on loan at Rangers and enjoyed plenty of exposure to first-team football.
He had played over 50 times for the Reds prior to joining, although his spell at Ibrox has transformed him into a more polished performer.
Michael Dawson has spent the last couple of months sidelined and Worrall has stepped up in his absence.
The academy graduate is viewed by many as a future captain and his performances this season have seen him further endeared to the club’s supporters.
Premier League interest isn’t a surprise. Worrall possesses the attributes to become a top-flight success. He is big, strong and in the last 18 months has shown ball-playing capabilities that will delight top-flight clubs.
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Selling the defender in January wouldn’t make sense though from Forest’s point of view. By the time the window reopens, the Reds could be well in contention for promotion and keeping their prized assets will be a must.
Nottingham Forest News View – Reds could demand £20m windfall as bare minimum
Worrall has shown real class so far this season and his valuation is soaring with each passing game.
Adam Webster went from Bristol City to Brighton for £20 million (BBC Sport) in the summer. The centre-back doesn’t have many more Championship appearances than Worrall and Forest must value their man at a similar price.
Forest won’t want to see their main defender leave but reality suggests every Championship player has a price.
One thing that Everton and Newcastle must bear in mind, is that Forest won’t be letting Worrall leave on the cheap.
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