OPINION
Aston Villa are currently in talks to sign former Leicester City defender Robert Huth on a free transfer according to the Leicester Mercury, but it is also Nottingham Forest who need defensive reinforcements.
In light of Villa’s talks with the German centre-back, Forest must hijack the reported discussions in order to land Huth for themselves, and consequently become a solid defensive unit.
The 33-year-old has plenty of Premier League pedigree having played for the likes of Stoke City previously, so he would be the perfect fit for a side bidding for a place in the coveted top-flight.
He may be getting older, but his age should not be a concern for Forest, who are in dire need of an experienced centre-back if they want to be considered as serious contenders in the Championship next term.
Huth has had his injury problems in the past, but that should not stop him performing consistently for the Reds just like he did for Leicester.
The 6’3″ (source: Transfermarkt) colossus’ presence would be a welcome addition in Nottingham Forest’s back line, of whom had dismal goal difference last season. This, alongside the lack of victories, demoted the club to a very lowly 17th place – but the inclusion of an experienced defender like Huth should ensure that last season was a thing of the past.
Should they land Huth, they would be acquiring him on a free transfer – making his potential move even more of a coup for the calibre of player they would be signing.
It is arguably a surprise that no other clubs apart from Aston Villa are after him, but this should make it easier for Forest, who are more likely to offer him a better financial incentive compared to their cash-strapped counterparts.
This is something of which boss Aitor Karanka should capitalise on and use to the club’s advantage – and they must snatch him from under the noses of their Championship rivals.