Nottingham Forest are edging closer to the signing of Newcastle striker Chris Wood, reports The Times. Steve Cooper is hoping to land the player as he looks to add some cover to his attacking ranks.
Wood has fallen down the pecking order somewhat at Newcastle. He’s scored three times this season but has started just four of his 18 outings this season.
The 31-year-old is thought to be closing in on a move to the City Ground. He will join the club on loan until the end of the 2022/23 campaign from the Champions League-chasing Magpies.
Wood has fallen out of favour at St James’ Park. He’s behind Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak in the striker race and Eddie Howe is willing to let him out on a temporary basis.
The player might not be the most exciting addition to ever join Forest. Right now, however, he’d provide some competition and his Premier League experience could be vital.
Wood has scored 54 goals in 189 appearances in the Premier League across spells with Burnley and Newcastle. As a result, he could be just what Forest are looking for in the transfer market.
The Reds hauled themselves up to 13th in the Premier League on Saturday. They do lack a focal point in the absence of Taiwo Awoniyi, however, and signing Wood makes a lot of sense.
Wood only moved to Newcastle in January 2022. He cost the Magpies £25 million and helped the team avoid relegation at the expense of former club Burnley.
Forest pushing to sign Wood from Newcastle
The Reds have been after a striker all month. When Awonyi limped off after scoring the winner at Southampton, it was abundantly obvious that another target man would be required.
Forest now look to be nearing a deal to take Wood until the end of the season. At this stage, that could be a wise thing to do and it will be interesting to see how he gets on.
Gary Neville praised Newcastle for signing him last season. He called it a reliable signing on the Gary Neville Podcast and he helped the club stay up during 2021/22, scoring twice.
Forest look to be nearing an end to their striker search. Wood will provide a focal point and with a few goals he should help the Reds stay in the Premier League.