Nottingham Forest could be in for a busy transfer deadline day after having a bid turned down for Celtic’s Arne Engels.
The Premier League strugglers have already signed two players in striker Lorenzo Lucca and goalkeeper Stefan Ortega, but boss Sean Dyche wants three more.
Another striker, a left-back and a midfielder remain on the transfer wishlist, and Engels’ arrival would help bolster a problem position during a crucial stage of the season.
Celtic Reject Nottingham Forest Bid
Nottingham Forest have been targeting midfielder Engels to strengthen their options in the middle of the park.
However, the Scottish champions are standing resolute by insisting their key player is not for sale this month.
Celtic turned down an improved £17.3million offer for the 22-year-old, who still has over two years left on his contract at the club.
Martin O’Neill sent a message to Forest on Sunday by selecting Engels in his starting XI in the 2-0 victory over Falkirk.
Whether Forest returns for a third bid remains to be seen, but Celtic remain in a strong place regarding maximising his transfer value.
Forest’s draw at the weekend means they sit six points above the drop zone, and given the need to strengthen further, Celtic can stand firm in their valuation.
Celtic will also want to keep one of their best players, particularly given the threat of losing the title this season. Hearts sit at the top of the table, six points above O’Neill’s side and Rangers.
Sean Dyche Wants Three Transfers
Dyche laid out his transfer plans following their 1-1 draw with Crystal Palace on Sunday.
He said: “There has been noise about (strengthening) up front, and then all of a sudden T (Taiwo Awoniyi) pops up with a goal (against Brentford) and reminds us that he’s capable. And then we have got big Lucca come in as well.
“Different areas of the pitch. Left-back is possibly an area we could look at and midfield to bolster it up. We still have a lot of games to play.
“There are varying things. We are being linked with loads of players, so we’ll see which ones we can land. There are two or three I know of, but it doesn’t mean we’re going to get them, and it doesn’t mean we are going to sign all of them either.”
Who Else Is Linked With Nottingham Forest?
A deal to sign Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has seemingly collapsed, with the Frenchman on the verge of signing for AC Milan.
Dyche was linked with a reunion alongside Dwight McNeil, but Jack Grealish’s long-term injury means Everton are highly unlikely to sell.
Former Aston Villa forward Jhon Duran has been linked with the Colombian set for a move on Monday.
Forest could look towards Fiorentina’s Robin Gosens to solve their issue at left-back.
Reports in Italy suggest the two clubs are holding negotiations over a potential deal for the 31-year-old.
