Report: Nottingham Forest gem who impressed Nuno could now leave on loan, three EFL clubs keen
01/13/2025 04:00 AM
Nottingham Forest are unlikely to be busy in the transfer window this month even if a few players might be identified as potential targets before things grind to a halt.
In the short term, Forest have a big game to look forward to against Liverpool. The Reds have enjoyed a brilliant first half of 2024/25 and sit pretty in the Premier League table right now.
| Position | Team | PlayedMP | WonW | DrawnD | LostL | ForGF | AgainstGA | DiffGD | PointsPts |
| 3 | Nottm ForestNottingham Forest | 20 | 12 | 4 | 4 | 29 | 19 | 10 | 40 |
Kang-in Lee has been linked with a move to Forest. The PSG player is being eyed by a number of clubs this month and the Reds have now positioned themselves in the race to land him.
It could be that Forest choose to keep the pursestrings closed, however. With European football a real possibility next season, Evangelos Marinakis might want a bigger bounty of cash for the summer.
There could be some outgoings from the City Ground. Andrew Omobamidele has been linked with Leeds, whilst Willy Boly has also received offers from EFL outfits it would seem.
Nottingham Forest youngster could head out on loan
According to Alan Nixon via his Patreon, Joe Gardner could be set to leave the City Ground on a temporary basis this month, with a host of EFL clubs eyeing a move for him.
James Perch raved about Gardner during a win over Carlisle for the B-Team in the EFL Trophy earlier this season and the player looks set to star in the future.
Furthermore, Nuno Espirito Santo praised Gardner after he was handed his debut in the FA Cup against Bristol City during the 2023/24 campaign shortly after the head coach had come to the club.
The next stage in his development looks to be a loan away from Trentside. It’s claimed in the report that Burton are leading the chase, with Harrogate and Morecambe also keen to sign the teenager.
Gardner has scored five goals and claimed two assists in 13 appearances this season. He’s been a regular in Warren Joyce’s B-Team and can operate as a centre forward or through the middle as a number 10.
Forest have to get Gardner the right loan this month
It’s all good and well getting players out on loan but the clubs have to be the right ones. If young players are to develop they need clubs that will suit their style and also guarantee them game time.
Esapa Osong and Manni Norkett joined Rotherham and Cheltenham respectively in the summer. However, those moves proved pointless and both strikers are already back on Trentside after failing to get minutes.
Forest can’t make the same mistake with Gardner. If he’s going to head out on loan for the remainder of the season it’s vital that he plays and gets to mix it up with men for the first time in his career.
