Christian Atsu to Nottingham Forest transfer rumour: Newcastle stance, Olympiacos competition, fan verdict
Nottingham Forest transfer news and rumours | The Reds and a host of other clubs have been linked with a deadline day move for the Newcastle winger
by Mark WakefieldINITIAL RUMOUR
Nottingham Forest are being linked with a loan move for Newcastle United forward Christian Atsu.
According to a report in the Daily Mail, the Premier League side have offered the 28-year-old to the Reds, in an effort to see him go on loan to the City Ground.
West Bromwich Albion have been reportedly interested in the signing of Atsu on loan.
FRESH COMPETITION
Forest appear to face further competition if they want to sign winger Christian Atsu from Newcastle United.
A report in the Daily Mail claims that more clubs have entered the race to sign the Ghana international before tonight’s 11pm deadline.
The report states that Championship duo Blackburn Rovers and Fulham are showing an interest in the 28-year-old.
It is also being claimed that Greek club Olympiacos are keeping tabs on Atsu, as they look to sign a replacement for Daniel Podence who left the club to sign for Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers.
WHAT ATSU'S SAID
Despite his future being up in the air, Atsu remains focused on picking up points for Newcastle, starting with this weekend’s league clash against Norwich City.
"It's a big game for us and I believe it's one of the most important games of the season,” Atsu told Chronicle Live.
He added: "As you can see in the table the points are very close. Four or five teams are on 30 points.
"It's a big challenge for us. It is a must win."
SCOUTING REPORT
Name: Christian Atsu
Age: 28
Position: Winger/forward
Nationality: Ghana
Clubs: Atsu started his career in his home country Ghana, before moving to Portugal to join Porto’s academy in 2009.
He progressed through the club’s youth ranks to reach the first-team, and had a loan spell with Rio Ave before signing a permanent deal with Chelsea in 2013.
Straight after moving to Stamford Bridge, Atsu was loaned out to Dutch club Vitesse Arnhem, and later had temporary stints with Everton, Bournemouth, Malaga and Newcastle before signing for the Magpies permanently in 2017.
FOREST FAN VERDICT
Dan: “This would be quality.”
Priceless: “Get this done please.”
Higher Self: “Would love Atsu.”
Jordan: “Christian Atsu, yes please!”
Rory Lomax: “Can’t wait to see all rumoured players linked today. Atsu already and it’s not even 7am, I’d take him though.”
Cameron Clark: “Finish this window off with signing Atsu and McGuane, not a bad window at all! Just hope we've signed enough quality for the final push. Trust the transfer team.”
Salman: “Christian Atsu good deal.”
NEWCASTLE FAN VERDICT
Paul: “He’s been a good servant to Newcastle, wish him well.”
Simon: “If he goes we need to replace him as we need game changers in final third.”
Paul Tweedy: “I hope so because every appearance he is going backwards instead of forwards!”
Bradley Heads: “If he needs a lift to get to his medical anywhere give me a message.”
Jahanzeb Saleem: “Not seen the Atsu we see for Ghana and maybe the tactics don’t suit his style but he needs to play at his age and probably Ligue 1 is his level.”
Lee Izzy: “I like Atsu even if any one does give me stick.. very unpredictable at times and can turn a very much looking 0-0 into a win with his crazy runs and not afraid to take any one on.”
Andrew Yorke: “Not good enough. Too inconsistent. Lacks final pass or finish, but always available for selection never moans. Thank you for your service.”
Montri Jaimeetham: “Good with the ball and that is it! Offload asap.”