Nottingham Forest have identified Nigerian forward as a necessary injection to their forward line
Just over a month ago, Nottingham Forest signed Taiwo Awoniyi from Union Berlin on a then record deal worth £17.5m.
After a cold start to life in the Premier League saw Newcastle blow them apart in a game they were second best throughout, there’s an urgent need to add some more Premier League experience.
The Reds already signed highest earner, Jesse Lingard on a one-year deal for free and have also made a number of key signings but despite these, Steve Cooper’s side still needs some reinforcement.
Greek club owner, Evangelis Marinakis has sanctioned a move for Emmanuel Dennis, as Forest have made their first offer for the Nigeria international forward.
Dennis scored 10 goals and provided six assists last season for Watford but the Hornets got relegated. He has played the first two games in the Championship this season but is still looking to make a move away from Vicarage Road.
Early indications suggest that Forest are pushing to sign him on loan as his £25m valuation is considered a bit high, but it’s yet to be seen if Watford are willing to part with him for lesser.
Why Watford is in a comfortable position on Dennis
When the player joined Watford from Club Brugge for £3.5m, he was believed to have a relegation clause attached to his contract.
This meant his wages will be significantly reduced if they relegate. Since Watford relegated, Dennis may be looking to life in the Premier League, both from a financial perspective and a career progression angle.
With four years left on his contract, Watford are in the supreme position to decide what to do with his current contract and may hold out for nothing less than their valuation.
Forest may splash the cash however, according to TheAthletic, with Dennis showing he could have mastered the art of the league last term and will have significant impressions to give.
A £20m plus add-ons first offer is reported to have been submitted to Watford and it’s expected to be enough to convince Watford to agree.
