Nottingham Forest have been linked with a move for Bournemouth defender Steve Cook, according to the Daily Mail.
Naturally, the link has been met with angst among the fan base – and the cynics do have a point.
Cook, 30, doesn’t really fit the profile of a Dane Murphy signing and it would hardly typify the club’s new strategy.
Perhaps, however, Cook could be just the man to help Forest push on towards a play-off place.
It’s worth noting that the Reds aren’t currently in pole position for his signature. Mark Warburton at QPR is ahead of the chasing pack at this stage.
Forest are perhaps one injury at centre-back away from a mini-disaster.
Scott McKenna and Joe Worrall are the first choice options, with Tobias Figueiredo in reserve.
If Steve Cooper opts to play three though, Forest are left somewhat short of cover.
Loic Mbe Soh has been injured pretty much all season, whilst Riley Harbottle and Baba Fernandes are still very raw.
Ryan Yates has filled in at centre-back but his qualities are better served in midfield.
That could see the Reds try and sign another defender in January and a permanent signing would be ideal.
Cook has fallen down the pecking order under Scott Parker and will be allowed to move on next month.
He has made just three Championship appearances this season and his long association with Bournemouth is drawing to a close.
Underwhelming but Cook could help Forest get the job done
Signing Cook wouldn’t be the most exciting defender Forest could sign in January.
At 30, however, he’s not at a bad age for a centre-back and he would bring some experience to a young defensive unit.
Cook is a Cherries stalwart. He’s played 387 times for the club and also made 168 appearances in the Premier League.
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On a wage of £28,000-a-week, he’s unlikely to get a move to Forest. However, in a bid to play regular football, it’s pretty clear he’d be willing to take a drop in salary.
Cook can play as part of a two or a three-man defence, and it’s fair to say he’d be an upgrade on Figueiredo in defence.
Supporters are right to be somewhat sceptical but Cook might be exactly what Forest need.