Nottingham Forest have wasted no time or resources in making sure they have a squad fit to compete in the Premier League when they make their long-awaited return this week after 23 years away from the top flight.
Steve Cooper and the powers at The City Ground have identified and secured deals for 11 players already, with a combination of Premier League experience and young talent from across the top European leagues, it will be interesting to watch the team come together when they take on Newcastle United in the first game of the season at St James’ Park this weekend.
It was reported that the Forest boss still wants to add a midfielder and another striker before the transfer window shuts, and with Orel Mangala close to becoming the 12th player to join the new-look Nottingham Forest team, the attention will now likely turn to the final position that needs filling.
The newly-promoted side have been linked with a number of forwards over the summer so far with Alassane Plea, Maxwel Cornet and Jordan Larsson all named as potential targets, as well as Watford striker Emmanuel Dennis who could be the cherry on top of the perfect transfer window if the Reds can secure a deal.
Despite being relegated with Watford, Dennis was a stand-out performer in the team last season in the Premier League, putting in impressive performances that has led to a number of top-flight clubs chasing his signature over the transfer window.
Over 33 appearances, the £25m gem who was hailed “very talented” by Claudio Ranieri scored 10 goals, delivered six assists and created seven big chances, as well as making an average of one key pass, 1.5 tackles and taking 1.8 shots per game – not to metnion finishing the season comfortably as the Hornets’ top goalscorer.
Cooper could even land his very own Jarrod Bowen, as the West Ham star was one of the most comparable players to Dennis over last season according to FBref.
Despite Bowen having more goal contributions (22) and more shot-creating actions (95), Dennis outperformed the forward in many other areas, including shots on target accuracy (44.3%), pass-completion rate (68.1%) and more shot-creating actions per 90 (3.17).
Would Dennis be a good signing for Forest?
With that being said, the signing of Dennis would be a major coup for Forest if they can get a deal done this summer and it could certainly strengthen their forward line in their pursuit to retain their Premier League status next term.
AND in other news: Contact made: Forest in talks for “superb” £10m signing, just imagine him & Mangala
