Crystal Palace star increasingly likely to leave in January as Nott’m Forest ready move

Nottingham Forest’s plans for January are already stirring the rumour mill as the club looks at ways to strengthen.

Archie Brown remains one name in the conversation, and Sport Witness reported earlier this month that Forest were still following the Fenerbahce defender after failing to bring him to the City Ground during the summer.

The left-sided player has spoken positively about a possible Premier League move, although that is only part of the picture, with the same report said Fenerbahçe were reluctant to sell midway through the season.

That leaves Forest needing to establish whether there is a deal worth pursuing, especially with Neco Williams and Luca Netz already among Oliver Glasner’s options on that flank.

One January arrival is already arranged, as Michael Noonan is due to join from Shamrock Rovers on January 1, with Forest having secured an agreement for the teenage striker despite rival interest from Celtic earlier this year.

Noonan is an exciting addition for the future, and the club have spoken about giving young recruits a route towards the first team.

It would be a big ask to expect him to solve every attacking problem straight away.

There is also encouraging news over a player Forest will want to keep, as James McAtee favours reportedly staying despite speculation linking him with a return to Man City.

Keeping that progress going matters, and so does giving him more reliable targets in attack, with the summer arrival of Liam Delap not ending the search for another forward.

Nottingham Forest eye Jean-Philippe Mateta reunion for Oliver Glasner amid Man United interest

According to TEAMtalk’s Graeme Bailey, Forest are ready to challenge Man United for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta in January.

The Frenchman, 29, is being assessed as Glasner looks to add more punch to his attack, and a reunion would bring together a manager and striker who already know each other from Palace.

Bailey reports that Mateta wants to remain in the Premier League, despite interest from elsewhere in Europe and Saudi Arabia, and he’s increasingly likely to leave in January.

That preference could give Forest a chance to make their case, although United are serious competition and Everton are also monitoring developments.

Mateta’s representatives are said to be searching for a suitable move after previous attempts to leave Selhurst Park failed. His frustration over the improved contract he wanted is among the reasons behind his wish to go.

United’s need for another striker has been sharpened by Benjamin Sesko’s persistent shin trouble, according to the report.

For Forest, the appeal is easy to see. Mateta offers experience of the division and familiarity with Glasner’s methods, which could help him settle if a deal becomes possible.

Forest now face a test of pulling power against Old Trafford, and a potential reunion with Glasner and regular starts could help their pitch, although Palace would still have to be persuaded to sell.