Nottingham Forest boss Aitor Karanka is eyeing up a reunion with Middlesbrough striker Patrick Bamford, according Teesside Live.
The newspaper reports on their website that the Forest boss wants to reunite with the 24-year-old after identifying him as one of his top transfer targets this summer, after managing the dazzling youngster when he was Boro boss at the Riverside Stadium.
The Reds boss is said to be hoping to sign two new strikers to bolster his side’s attacking options for next season’s promotion push, but it will be difficult to persuade Middlesbrough to part ways with the former Championship Player of the Season.
Good move for Nottingham Forest?
Bamford has proved himself at Middlesborough to be a top-class striker which is evident following his Championship Player of the Season award.
He has hit 13 goals in 44 appearances during the 2017/2018 campaign and this would be hugely beneficial to Karanka’s team who suffered a goal drought last season.
He can also operate on the left wing, demonstrating his versatility as a player – this quality would be highly attractive to any team, and will surely leave Forest fans drooling.
This is Futbol rating: 7.5/10
Likely to happen?
It would take a huge bid by Nottingham Forest to convince Middlesborough to part company with one of their most treasured assets, so it is a question of whether they would be willing to take a risk and do so.
Boro boss Tony Pulis wants to add to his strike force that includes Bamford, rather than have to replace him – which is another obstacle in Forest’s way.
A move does not seem likely at the moment, but after smashing their transfer record to sign Joao Carvalho, do not be surprised if Karanka comes back with a huge bid that even Middlesborough would be tempted by.
This is Futbol rating: 6.5/10