Reported Leeds United transfer target Brennan Johnson had been advised to snub interest in his services in January, according to one of his team-mates.

The Lowdown: Johnson shines for Forest

The Nottingham Forest midfielder has emerged as arguably one of the Championship's best young players this season, with the Midlands club pushing for promotion to the Premier League. His manager Steve Cooper has claimed that he can turn the 20-year-old into a 'top player'.

Johnson has scored 10 goals and registered six assists in the league, outlining his attacking prowess and leading to Leeds reportedly taking an interest in trying to sign him over the winter.

However, it seems that the Welshman has been given some advice which may not be music to the ears of those at Elland Road.

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The Latest: Leeds-linked Johnson advised to stay put

According to The Telegraph (via Football League World), Johnson's Nottingham Forest team-mate Steve Cook has revealed that the 20-year-old was advised to remain at the City Ground in the wake of reported transfer interest from the likes of Leeds.

The ex-Bournemouth defender stated: "Brennan obviously had an opportunity to move on but I know for a fact that he was advised to stay at Forest. They’ve played a lot of games and know what they need to do."

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The Verdict: Worth keeping an eye on him

Johnson looks like a player of huge pedigree - David Beckham has hailed him on Instagram in the past - already making a name for himself in a hugely competitive league and delivering great consistency at a young age.

If Leeds were to retain an interest in the 20-year-old, he is someone who Jesse Marsch could view as both a current and long-term acquisition, initially coming in as a useful squad player before maturing into a key figure at Elland Road.

Johnson could add a sprinkling of guile in attacking midfield areas - he averages 1.2 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per game in the league this season - and the fact that he can play both centrally and out wide makes him a versatile option as well.

Therefore, despite him being advised to stay at Forest for now, Leeds should not simply forget about the youngster, as his head could be turned further down the line if his club are unable to end their long Premier League exile.

In other news, Phil Hay has made a key Leeds injury claim. Read more here.