Nottingham Forest insist Super Eagles star is not for sale amidst interest from PL club
Nottingham Forest have reportedly resisted offers for Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who has attracted interest from several clubs, including West Ham United.
Daily Mail reporter Sami Mokbel said Forest is keen to retain Awoniyi and that the decision would provide a welcome financial injection for the club.
Nottingham Forest reluctant to sell striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who has interest from clubs including West Ham. A big offer could tempt Forest but any move also complicated by need to replace Awoniyi. More transfers on @MailSport
— Sami Mokbel (@SamiMokbel81_DM) January 13, 2025
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European ambitions and squad stability
Nottingham Forest is aiming to qualify for Europe this season. They prioritise squad stability and are therefore reluctant to let go of Awoniyi, especially in mid-season.
Losing the Nigerian striker would necessitate a search for a replacement, potentially disrupting their ambitions.
West Ham's striker crisis intensifies interest
West Ham's need for a striker has become more urgent due to injuries to key players.
Michael Antonio is ruled out for the remainder of the season with a leg injury, while Nikolas Fullkrug is facing a potentially extended period on the sidelines with a hamstring issue.
The injury crisis has intensified West Ham's pursuit of Nottingham Forest striker Awoniyi.
Taiwo Awoniyi is reportedly eager for a move to secure more regular playing time. This season, he has only made two Premier League starts and two appearances in other cup competitions.
Limited opportunities at Forest could jeopardise his place in the Super Eagles squad, especially with the appointment of new coach Eric Chelle.
Chelle may favour players in top form, such as Toluwalase Arokodare, who is currently impressing at Genk.
With just three weeks remaining in the January transfer window, West Ham and other interested clubs are expected to increase their efforts to sign Awoniyi.
They will be looking to finalise a deal for the Nigerian striker before the deadline.