On January 1, 2020 the transfer window will swing open, with Nottingham Forest being urged to welcome in the New Year with a striking signing.
The Reds’ hunt for another frontman is well documented.
With Lewis Grabban the only reliable option in that area at present, needs up top are rather glaring.
Said issues are expected to be addressed.
Recent weeks have been dominated by speculation, with a number of forwards said to be in Forest’s sight.
From Dwight Gayle to Connor Wickham, seemingly no stone is being left unturned.
It does, however, remain to be seen whether the gossip will be turned into something more tangible.
And when fresh faces will be welcomed into the City Ground ranks.
The hope is that discussions are being held and groundwork put in place.
Arrivals
If that is the case, then the arrivals lounge could be a busy place.
There are just two weeks left now in which to get early agreements sanctioned, with Kenny Burns among those hoping to see deals wrapped up quickly.
The Reds legend has said in the Nottingham Post: “January can’t come quickly enough for Nottingham Forest.
“We desperately need some reinforcements in the transfer window, to keep us challenging at the top end of the table.
“I’d like to think that as soon as the window opens, we’ll sign someone on the first day. Get them in early.
“We are crying out for another striker, so I hope we can get one in quick. We need someone to help out with the goals – and in case Lewis Grabban gets injured.”
Forest have not always been swift and decisive in their recruitment business.
Matters outside of their control have, on occasion, conspired against them – such as 12 months ago.
Deadline
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Aitor Karanka was at the helm when the last January window opened, but Martin O’Neill was calling the shots by the middle of the month and when the deadline passed.
That meant that business was done late.
Burns has added in the Post: “More often than not, in previous years we’ve left it until the last minute and that means you end up with what’s left; the players other clubs don’t want.
“It’s like going to pick a turkey on Christmas Eve – there’s not many left to choose from.”
A valid point, especially when you consider the competition Forest are set to face.
The speculation surrounding the likes of Gayle and Jack Clarke suggests that the Reds are not the only ones shooting admiring glances in the direction of sought-after assets.
Dither now and there will be a price to pay.
Quite literally if Sabri Lamouchi is left scratching around for additions as desperation sets in.
Such a scenario can be avoided, but the advice of Burns must be heeded over the course of the next fortnight.
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