Report: Nottingham Forest in talks to sign Nicholas Ioannou

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Nottingham Forest look set to finally complete the signing of Nicholas Ioannou, according to Greek outlet Sportime.

The player who typically operates at left-back is a former Manchester United youth team prospect and he’ll arrive from Cypriot outfit APOEL.

Thema Sports had previously reported earlier this week that Ioannou will fly to Athens to undergo his medical, before heading to Nottingham.

The latest citing claims that Forest will get their hands on Ioannou for just £500,000, representing a relatively low-risk deal for the Reds.

Ioannou, 24, has been playing in Cyprus since 2014 when he was released by Manchster United.

He has proved a reliable performer for the club; playing 107 times, scoring six goals and claiming two assists.

Last season he helped APOEL to the Final Qualifying round for the Champions League, captaining the team as they were beaten over two legs by Ajax.

He then featured in every game as they reached the last 32 of the Europa League coming through a group including eventual winners Sevilla.

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If Forest were to add Ioannou it could spell bad news for current left-back Yuri Ribeiro.

The Portuguese youngster played on Saturday but has been linked with a move to Olympiacos this summer.

Tyler Blackett started at left-back at QPR during the first game and there’s a sense that the former Reading man and Ioannou could be the two options at left-back.

The deal to see Ioannou arrive at Forest looks to be gathering pace and it’ll be interesting to see where he slots in.

NFN Verdict – Imperative for Forest to offload

Signing players is always exciting but it’s important Forest now increase their efforts to streamline the squad.

Ioannou won’t exactly break the bank but as a result of his arrival some will need to leave.

Ribeiro leaving would perhaps be a tough one. He is young, looked good last season and could improve in the future.

With that in mind, some tough calls could be made though and some regular starters from last season might find themselves surplus.