Nottingham Forest have wasted no time or resources in ensuring they can build a team that is ready to compete in the Premier League next season, and now a reliable source has given an update on another transfer target.
What's the latest?
Italian journalist and transfer insider Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Forest are now focused on completing a deal to sign Jesse Lingard this summer.
Romano tweeted:
"Official. Nottingham Forest confirm signing of Harry Toffolo, left-back joins on a permanent deal from Huddersfield.
"Nottingham Forest board, now still pushing to sign Jesse Lingard in a battle with West Ham after proposal submitted to former Man Utd player."
Supporters will be excited
Forest have been ruthless in their attempts to bolster their squad ahead of their long-awaited return to the top flight next month, with Harry Toffolo the 10th signing of the summer and supporters will be excited that Lingard could shortly become the 11th.
The former Manchester United star has been exploring his options over the past few weeks since his contract expired with the Red Devils at the end of last month, holding talks with MLS clubs and receiving offers from clubs all over the world, including a £10m a year offer from Saudi Arabia.
However, if Cooper gets his way as he has with a number of signings already this transfer window, Lingard will become a Red once again but this time on Trentside.
In the Premier League over his career so far the 30-year-old gem has made 176 appearances, scoring 29 goals and delivering 14 assists but his dwindling game-time at Old Trafford has seen the player miss out on opportunities to prove his worth, something that Cooper can offer at The City Ground.
Lingard gave a glimpse of what he can achieve with consistent game-time when he was sent out on loan to West Ham United back in January 2021 for the rest of the 2020/21 season, scoring nine goals and delivering five assists in just 16 appearances with a goal contribution every 101 minutes.
With that being said, the signing of Lingard would be a major coup for Cooper as the midfielder could not only offer a wealth of experience in the Premier League but also offer wide versatility across the attacking positions giving Forest even more depth in their goal threat.