Nottingham Forest could soon be required to look for alternatives to goalkeeper Brice Samba.
The Athletic reported earlier today that the goalkeeper has rejected a new deal and will now seek a departure from the City Ground.
It’s also claimed by the same outlet that Forest are hopeful of working out a resolution that suits all parties.
If Samba stands firm, however, the Reds will need to seek a replacement.
On the back of today’s news, we’ve looked at three goalkeepers that Steve Cooper could target if the worst-case scenario happens with Samba.
Three Samba alternatives for Forest to consider:
Freddie Woodman
The obvious link given that he’s played under Steve Cooper previously.
Woodman spent two seasons on loan at Swansea and helped the club achieve back-to-back play-off campaigns.
It’s likely that he will be leaving Newcastle this summer.
Eddie Howe is eyeing the signing of another goalkeeper to compete with Martin Dubravka and Woodman will be surplus.
Preston have been linked with the youngster but a move to the Premier League would surely appeal more.
Nick Pope
Speculation on Sunday suggested that Forest had the Burnley goalkeeper in their sights.
It was also claimed that the Clarets would hold out for £40 million this summer.
Given their relegation and perilous financial situation, it seems unlikely they’ll get anywhere close to that sum for a goalkeeper who is 30-years-old.
If Forest can negotiate a more reasonable price then the England man could be the ideal signing for the Reds.
Dean Henderson
This one would be seriously ambitious and could be very hard to complete.
It would, however, see Forest flex their ambition if they could land the Manchester United man.
Henderson is desperate to play regular football and if Samba goes, Forest could definitely offer that.
He’d have to be convinced of the City Ground project but working under a forward-thinking coach like Steve Cooper could help persuade him.
Again, this deal does look ambitious but if Forest could even tempt him on loan it would be quite the coup.