Brentford are eyeing a swoop on Nottingham Forest for central defender Joe Worrall. The news comes via The Sun (27/06; page 61), with Alan Nixon seemingly obsessed over the 24-year-old’s future.
A Sunday can’t seem to pass without the journalist linking Worrall with a move to a Premier League club. This week, it’s the top-flight newcomers who are eyeing a raid on Forest.
The Hucknall-born enforcer does look set for a move away from Forest. He deserves Premier League action, although he won’t come cheap for potential suitors.
A report by the Daily Mail has claimed that Forest value Worrall at £12 million. It seems likely, however, that several performance-related add-ons will be expected on top of that.
The academy graduate was Forest’s star man last season. Despite breaking his foot and cracking a rib, he still made 33 appearances and claimed the Player of the Year award.
His form has therefore caught the eye. Burnley, West Ham, Crystal Palace and now the Bees have all been linked at various points.
Despite his tender years, Worrall has experience in bucket loads. He has made 137 appearances for his boyhood team and also tasted Europa League action on loan at Rangers.
During his Ibrox stint, he earned rave reviews from Steven Gerrard, who called the Forest man ‘outstanding’ after a game against Kilmarnock.
Is losing Worrall inevitable for Forest?
If Alan Nixon is remotely right then the Reds have no chance of keeping him this summer.
It does seem as though there isn’t smoke without fire, however, although it’s natural clubs will be monitoring Worrall.
With no Premier League for over 20 years, it’s natural that Forest will be a selling club.
Losing Worrall will sting for supporters though. Matty Cash departed last year, but the 24-year-old centre-back is very much one of Forest’s own.
If he is to leave, the Reds must ensure they get the very best deal for him, allowing Chris Hughton to reinvest into the squad.
Brentford have already missed out on Manchester City centre-half Taylor Harwood-Bellis and don’t want to suffer disappointment over Worrall.
Forest might choose to dig their heels in a while longer, although speculation from Nixon will continue to be rife.
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