Nottingham Forest Eyes Late Deal for Set-Piece Star Comparable to Declan Rice
Nottingham Forest is actively working to finalize transfers as the deadline approaches. The club has recently welcomed Lorenzo Lucca, an Italian forward, although he did not participate in the match against Crystal Palace. The departure of Arnaud Kalimuendo and Douglas Luiz during this transfer window has left the squad in a weakened state.
Nottingham Forest Targets Dwight McNeil
Amidst these changes, reports from Sky Sports indicate that Forest is eyeing a late move for Dwight McNeil from Everton. The 26-year-old winger previously played under manager Sean Dyche, proving instrumental in helping Everton overcome a 10-point penalty. Dyche took charge during a challenging season, securing the club’s position in the Premier League.
Challenges of Completing the Deal
Completing this acquisition before the transfer deadline could prove difficult for Nottingham Forest. Everton needs time to find a suitable replacement, complicating negotiations. McNeil has been a regular starter, featuring in six of the last seven Premier League matches.
Comparisons with Declan Rice
Analyst Chris Sutton once praised McNeil’s set-piece abilities, likening them to those of Declan Rice. This skill could be appealing for Forest, who could benefit from enhanced set-piece execution.
Mixed Opinions on McNeil’s Impact
- McNeil’s versatility allows him to play multiple roles, but he may not offer a significant upgrade over current squad options.
- His performances have led to perceptions of him being a jack-of-all-trades but not excelling in any particular area.
- While he impressed under Dyche, Forest fans may view his potential signing with skepticism.
Nottingham Forest faces a pivotal moment as they weigh the pros and cons of pursuing Dwight McNeil. The decision could significantly impact squad dynamics as they strive to strengthen their team before the window closes.