Nottingham Forest boss Aitor Karanka has set his sights on a reunion with Cardiff City striker Lee Tomlin, according to the Nottingham Post.
The newspaper reports on their website that the Forest manager is keen for the 29-year-old to return to the City Ground again next season following an impressive loan spell in the East Midlands in the second half of the 2017/2018 campaign.
However it is understood their best chance of landing the forward may be on a loan deal rather than on a permanent basis.
The 5″9 (source: Transfermarkt) attacker has previously said he wants to have the opportunity to play in the Premier League with Cardiff, but is not a key figure in boss Neil Warnock’s future plans – and is open minded about a move to the Reds.
Good move for Nottingham Forest?
Tomlin impressed during his loan spell at the City Ground after his move in January, scoring 4 goals in 12 starts. He made an important impact during his stay, helping Forest avoid relegation.
Karanka knows what he is about and trusts the player, so it would be a good move for Forest to bring him in again after establishing himself as a favourite amongst the City Ground faithful.
After securing the signing of the Portuguese duo Joao Carvalho and Diogo Goncalves, the Forest boss will be extra keen to add to his attack next season.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
With Tomlin not being a part of Warnock’s immediate plans for the Premier League, then it would be wise for him to move to a club he knows and trusts, as well as a manager he can trust.
Being out-of-favour at Cardiff City means it will be easier for Forest to snap him up, and if he impresses again this season, it may lead to a permanent deal.
A move for Tomlin is likely to happen soon after being ousted by Warnock.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10