Nottingham Forest are reportedly interested in making a controversial summer move for Derby County midfielder Tom Lawrence.

The Lowdown: Lawrence off this summer?

The 28-year-old has been a key player for the Rams over the years but he was unable to prevent them from being relegated from the Championship in 2021/22.

Lawrence is out of contract at Derby at the end of next month, at which point he will be able to leave on a free transfer ahead of next season.

It feels highly unlikely that the midfielder will be content with playing League One football in 2022/23 and a new report suggests there is plenty of interest in him.

The Latest: Forest preparing for PL

According to TEAMtalk, Forest are one of a whole host of clubs interested in signing Lawrence this summer, including Premier League pair Southampton and Leeds United.

Steve Cooper will have to battle several top flight sides to secure the signing, with his side's potential promotion surely key given the interest from above.

The Verdict: Wouldn't go down well

Should Lawrence trade Derby for Forest, there is no doubt that it would be controversial, given the rivalry that exists between the two clubs.

It would certainly be a bold move by the Welshman, who was once described as a 'wonderful player' by Gary Bowyer during his time on loan at Blackburn Rovers.

A tally of 90 goal contributions (50 goals and 40 assists) in 264 Championship appearances speaks volumes about his pedigree, though, and it seems Forest are already plotting for life in the Premier League, as they are willing to go head-to-head with Southampton and Leeds, not to mention Scottish Premiership pair Celtic and Rangers.

In other news, a Nottingham Forest bid for one player is expected this summer. Find out who it is here.