Nottingham Forest is facing a pivotal January transfer window as they balance keeping key players, addressing underperformance, and exploring potential new signings. Among the most talked-about stories is the future of striker Taiwo Awoniyi, who has been linked with a move to West Ham United. However, recent updates suggest that Forest has no intention of parting ways with the Nigerian forward, despite his struggles for form and game time this season. Here’s an in-depth look at the situation.

Taiwo Awoniyi’s Current Challenges

Taiwo Awoniyi was signed by Nottingham Forest in the summer of 2022 for £17.5 million from Union Berlin and quickly established himself as a key player. In his maiden Premier League season, Awoniyi scored 11 crucial goals, including a late-season scoring spree that helped keep Forest in the top flight with a game to spare. His performances were a testament to his ability to deliver under pressure and his potential to thrive in English football.

However, the 2023/24 season has been a different story. Injuries have disrupted his momentum, limiting his appearances and preventing him from building on his strong debut campaign. Adding to his struggles, Chris Wood has emerged as Forest’s primary striker. The New Zealand international has been in red-hot form, scoring 13 goals this season, including one against Liverpool earlier this week. Wood’s consistency has made him a fixture in Nuno Espírito Santo’s starting XI, leaving Awoniyi to watch from the sidelines.

Despite these setbacks, Awoniyi remains a popular figure in the dressing room. His work ethic and attitude have earned him praise from teammates, including Wood, who recently acknowledged the contributions Awoniyi has been making behind the scenes. However, with limited opportunities to play, speculation has grown over a potential move away from the City Ground.

West Ham United Links

Reports emerged earlier this month suggesting that West Ham United was keen to sign Awoniyi in the January transfer window. With Michail Antonio nearing the end of his career and Danny Ings struggling for consistency, Awoniyi’s proven ability to score in the Premier League could make him an attractive option for the Hammers.

However, according to journalist Graeme Bailey, any talk of West Ham pursuing Awoniyi is “wide of the mark.” Bailey has reported that Nottingham Forest is not considering selling the striker this month and remains committed to keeping him as part of the squad. While Awoniyi’s form and fitness have been concerns, Forest’s management sees value in retaining him, particularly as a different option to Chris Wood in attack.

Potential Competition: Yoane Wissa

While Forest is intent on keeping Awoniyi, they are also reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Brentford forward Yoane Wissa. The Congolese international has impressed in the Premier League with his versatility and ability to play across the front line. If Forest were to secure Wissa’s signature, it could create further competition for places in the attacking department. This move could potentially impact Awoniyi’s role in the squad, as Forest would have multiple options vying for the same position.

Gabriel Sara as a Long-Term Target

In addition to strengthening their forward line, Forest is also looking to bolster their midfield. One name that has emerged as a target is Gabriel Sara, the Brazilian midfielder currently playing for Galatasaray. Sara joined the Turkish giants last summer from Norwich City for a fee exceeding £20 million and has been enjoying a solid campaign.

Forest reportedly admires Sara’s technical ability and vision, qualities that could enhance their midfield options. However, a move for the 24-year-old is more likely to happen in the summer, when Forest may face a greater need for reinforcements in central midfield. For now, their focus remains on addressing more immediate priorities.

Managerial Perspective

Nuno Espírito Santo has a delicate task on his hands. The Forest manager must balance the need to secure results with the long-term development of the squad. Awoniyi’s struggles this season have been frustrating, but his proven ability to perform at the highest level means he still has a role to play. Keeping him at the club allows Forest to maintain depth and versatility in their attacking options, especially if injuries or dips in form affect other players.

At the same time, Espírito Santo and the club’s recruitment team are clearly looking to strengthen in key areas. The potential addition of players like Yoane Wissa or Gabriel Sara signals Forest’s ambition to build a squad capable of competing at a higher level.

Conclusion

Taiwo Awoniyi’s future at Nottingham Forest has been a topic of speculation, but the club appears determined to keep the striker as they navigate a crucial stage of the season. While injuries and the form of Chris Wood have hampered Awoniyi’s impact this term, Forest recognizes his value and seems unwilling to let him leave.

The rumored interest in Yoane Wissa and Gabriel Sara suggests that Forest is planning for the future while addressing current weaknesses. Whether Awoniyi can reclaim his place in the starting lineup remains to be seen, but his story at Nottingham Forest is far from over. For now, both player and club will hope that the second half of the season brings better fortunes and a renewed sense of momentum.