Nottingham Forest are keen to sign Jack Colback this summer after his successful loan spell from Newcastle United. However, Forest’s bid to procure Colback’s signature may be hampered by growing interest in the midfielder and Rafael Benitez’s uncertain future at Newcastle.
Colback has openly said he doesn’t expect to play under the current Magpies boss, but Benitez’s departure may open the door to a return to the first-team. As a result, Forest may not have much luck in negotiating a deal until Benitez’s future is resolved. This could be a major blow to Martin O’Neill.
The 29-year-old was a standout performer in 2018/19. He made 39 appearances in all competitions, scoring and creating four goals and racking up 3387 minutes of Championship football. Colback created 17 chances, boasted a 67% dribble success rate and won 41 aerial duels (51%).
He averaged 41 passes-per-game with 87% accuracy, blocked 62 passes/crosses/shots, made 41 clearances and averaged a tackle (120) or interception (55) every 19 minutes. After Joe Lolley, Colback was Forest’s Player of the Season and was identified as a must-sign this summer.
The ongoing Benitez/Newcastle saga could stop the Reds from getting their No.1 target, however.
