City Reportedly Interested In Nottingham Forest Prospect

The Imps are allegedly in the hunt to secure the loan signing of Nottingham Forest’s young forward Joe Gardner.

The 19-year-old has drawn attention with his performances for Forest’s Under-21s this season and is reportedly seen as a promising addition for the Imps as they look to push up the League One table. Is it a rumour worth paying attention to?

The Imp’s Interest in Gardner

The Imps, currently 12th in League One, are six points away from a playoff spot with 20 games left to play. Strengthening their attacking options was a priority for manager Michael Skubala, but James Collins arriving seems to have ticked that box.

Credit Graham Burrell

However, the recent injury setback to top scorer Bailey Cadamarteri, who has been sidelined for six weeks, could be a factor, as could Jack Moylan’s spell for at least six weeks. Adding a versatile and talented player like Gardner could provide the much-needed boost Lincoln requires to maintain their playoff aspirations.

Gardner’s Journey So Far

Gardner has impressed at Nottingham Forest this season, scoring five goals and providing two assists in 13 appearances for their Under-21 side. His ability to play across multiple positions, including as a centre-forward, winger, and attacking midfielder, makes him a valuable asset and a possible recruit for City, given JJ McKiernan has also gone out on loan, a possible Moylan replacement.

Credit Graham Burrell

Gardner made his first-team debut in the FA Cup against Bristol City last season and has been included on the bench for several Premier League matches. This January, Forest appears ready to allow Gardner to gain valuable first-team experience through a loan move, making this an ideal opportunity for Lincoln to secure his services.

Competition from Walsall

There is a caveat to this possible move – we face stiff competition from League Two leaders Walsall, who are also keen to bring Gardner in on loan. Walsall’s strong position at the top of League Two could be an appealing prospect for the youngster, as could their record with young players such as Nathan Lowe and, rather ironically, Freddie Draper.

Credit Graham Burrell

Will City sign Gardner? It depends. I do see us pulling a couple of loans in to pepper the squad, as Saxon Earley did in the first part of the season. We may look light in that attacking midfield area, but there’s Tom Bayliss, Ben House players there, Ethan Hamilton potentially as well. It might be that Forest have seen Earley’s experience, compared to Nathan Lowe at Walsall, and they prefer the latter.

Or, and this is the fun of the transfer window, it could all be rubbish!