Nottingham Forest are set to cash in on Jonathan Panzo with the player nearing a move to Rangers. Michael Beale is a huge fan of the centre-back and the Reds are now set to sanction a move.
The centre-back was a surprise addition to the Forest ranks in January 2022. He had played under Steve Cooper for the England under-17 ranks, winning the World Cup in 2017.
At Forest, however, the defender found football hard to come by. He made just one appearance and that came during a final day 1-1 draw against Hull City on the final day of last season.
During 2022/23, Panzo was loaned out to Coventry City. There, he made 32 appearances and helped the Sky Blues reach the Championship Play-Off Final before losing to Coventry.
It’s believed that the Sky Blues would have loved another deal to re-sign Panzo during the summer transfer window. According to the Daily Record, however, Rangers have won the race for the defender.
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Panzo came through the ranks with Chelsea before moving to Monaco. He then played for Dijon and it was there that he started to really get to grips with performing in men’s football.
Panzo has been hailed by Coventry boss Mark Robins over the last season. Following a 1-0 win over Blackburn, the boss called him ‘outstanding’ for his performance as part of the defensive unit.
Panzo now set to sign for Rangers from Forest
This would be a great deal for the player. He will be keen to continue playing regular first-team football after last season and it’s highly unlikely he will do that if he stays at Forest.
Panzo never got to play at the City Ground in front of the supporters. That aspect of his departure might disappoint him somewhat but ultimately this is a good move for him at this stage.
At 22-years-old, Forest would have to register Panzo as one of their 25-man squad if he were to stay at the City Ground. As a result, it makes perfect sense for him to head out and play regular football.
As a left-sided option, Panzo will be a useful addition to the Rangers ranks. Beale seems to value him considerably and he will hope to play Champions League football during next season.