Nottingham Forest are considering signing Mason Holgate from Everton in a bid to bolster their defensive unit. Rob Dorsett of Sky Sports believes the versatile defender is on a comprehensive list of players being compiled by Forest.
Steve Cooper would surely welcome another central defender into his ranks. Holgate is comfortable at the heart of a back four or playing as a full-back on either the right or left-hand side.
Holgate has slipped down the pecking order under Frank Lampard. He hasn’t played in the Premier League since August and despite some tragic form for Everton, he still can’t get a look in.
The talented player signed for the Toffees from EFL outfit Barnsley in 2015. He signed a five-year contract and at the time he was viewed as one of the brightest teenage talents in England.
At 26-years-old, the player has perhaps lost his way a little bit. He made 29 appearances for the Toffees last season in all competitions and sitting on the sidelines during 2022/23 won’t be viewed as ideal.
Forest aren’t the only club interested in the services of Holgate. Leeds United are keen and it’s unclear at this stage whether the defender might favour a move back to Yorkshire as the next step in his career.
BT Sport pundit Peter Crouch is a big fan. He praised Holgate last season for his performance in a Merseyside-derby against Liverpool as ‘brilliant’.
Forest are considering signing Holgate
This looks like a signing that could work for Forest. It’s clear that the team would welcome a bit of pace defensively and the Everton man would certainly bring that to the defensive unit.
The fact he’s not played much this season might be a small worry. However, at 26-years-old, he should be relatively capable of coming in and making an immediate impact at the City Ground.
Holgate has played 122 times in the Premier League. That experience would be very helpful as Forest bid to avoid relegation back into the Championship after a single season in the top flight.
Forest might have to shift a defender or two out first. Their squad is well-stocked at the moment. As a result, perhaps another option at the back won’t be obtained until some outgoings have taken place.
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