Report: Nottingham Forest gem George Hemmings wanted by Aston Villa

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Nottingham Forest youngster George Hemmings is wanted by a host of Premier League clubs with Aston Villa taking the keenest interest.

The Reds are now in danger of losing their young midfield talent, according to The Athletic, with the 16-year-old gem on the radar of several clubs.

Hemmings first came to light last month. Eagle-eyed supporters spotted him training with the senior ranks during the international break.

Forest head coach Steve Cooper saw many of his starts go out and play for their countries. That saw him promote a host of young talent, including Hemmings.

A central midfielder by trade, big things are expected of the teenager. He’s already a regular with the under-18 outfit at Forest and also played once for the under-21s.

Forest are facing a fight to keep hold of some of their burgeoning talents. The club’s category-one status is in jeopardy and there is plenty of work to do.

The club believe that if a player of Hemmings’ quality is allowed to leave it would send the wrong message. The report also claims that it would represent an unwanted line drawn in the sand.

Hemmings wanted by Aston Villa and Forest have to act

This has the potential to be a damaging few weeks for Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.

Steve Cooper is reportedly under fire to revive the club’s fortunes; whilst Gary Brazil is yet to be offered a new contract at the club beyond this season.

Now, other clubs are sniffing around young talent. Hemmings is the latest to be linked with a move and he won’t be the last at this rate.

Forest have a proud history of nurturing young talent. Furthermore, they are able to offer youngsters an indication that the path to the senior squad is clear.

Hemmings is under no obligation to remain at Forest. Under-18 players are able to sign for any club within a 90-minute drive of the club’s training ground.

With that in mind, Forest will have to hope that the central midfielder sees his future at the City Ground and not Villa Park.