Merih Demiral, Newcastle, Magpies, St James' Park, Premier League
Nottingham Forest have lodged a deadline day bid for Atalanta defender Merih Demiral, according to reports.
The Lowdown: Cooper making moves…
Reports have suggested that Forest are making moves this January transfer window deadline day with talks apparently happening over PSG keeper Keylor Navas.
This comes after the Premier League strugglers added the likes of Chris Wood and Danilo to their ranks with Forest up against it as they battle for their top flight survival.
The Latest: Forest make Demiral bid…
According to TuttoMercatoWeb, Forest have made a deadline day offer to sign defender Demiral in the form of an ‘onerous loan with the right to buy’.
This option to purchase would turn into an obligation if certain conditions are met, totalling around €28 million (£24.6m).
However, while Atalanta are willing to talk, the player is ‘less convinced’.
The Verdict: Right man?
The Turkey international could certainly bolster Cooper’s options if they can get a deadline day move over the line and convince Demiral to make a move.
According to WhoScored, the centre-back ranks in Atalanta’s top five for tackles and interceptions made per 90 and also ranks just behind teammate Mehmeh Okoli for clearances.
He’s also third in their squad for aerial duels won per 90, standing out as a very good and reliable defender when at his very best.
The 24-year-old is still pretty young as well and would come to Forest as a longevity signing if the loan was indeed made permanent.
Called a defender who has ‘got everything’ by Serie A expert Conor Clancy, perhaps the pull of English football could convince Demiral to make the move.
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