Nottingham Forest have been stunned by Sheffield United in their quest to sign Max Lowe on a permanent deal this summer.
According to The Star, it will cost the Reds £5 million to prise the promotion-winning left-back away from Bramall Lane.
Lowe made 20 appearances for the Reds last season. Two serious injuries restricted his game time and his second return came in the play-off final.
Steve Cooper has clearly been impressed with him and as a result, he holds a desire to sign him up on a permanent basis.
It is thought that Forest will go back to the table for Lowe but they’ll be looking to negotiate a more realistic price for his services.
Lowe has only made 11 appearances for United. It seems as though Chris Wilder only ever saw him as a backup option having signed him from Derby.
The 25-year-old proved a useful addition to the Forest team last season. He brought balance to the team and when Cooper came in, he looked tailor-made for a wing-back berth.
Lowe doesn’t have a deal of Premier League experience. He made just eight appearances for the Blades in the top-flight but Forest require a left-back.
The Reds will want to probably sign two left-sided wing-backs this summer. Jack Colback filled in during 2021/22 but Cooper will likely want a more natural option.
United stun Forest with Lowe demands and they’ll have to look elsewhere
As good as Lowe was, his injury problems were a cause for concern, especially considering he injured the same groin twice.
The 25-year-old isn’t at a bad age. He could still develop somewhat and if he stays fit he could be capable of becoming a Premier League player.
Forest will likely want better if they’re going to part with £5 million though. Nothing against Lowe but now the Reds are in the Premier League, they can ill-afford sentimental signings.
Lowe would be a useful addition to the squad but he’s unlikely to start the season as a first-choice option for the Reds.
With that in mind, if the Blades are holding out for £5 million, Forest might be wise to move their cross hairs towards another target.