Nottingham Forest have been inked with Middlesbrough’s Rudy Gestede.
According to a report in the Nottingham Post, Nottingham Forest are interested in signing Middlesbrough striker Rudy Gestede on loan.
It has been reported that the Boro striker is among four forwards boss Aitor Karanka has on his wish-list ahead of the deadline, with others including Jermaine Defoe and former Nottingham Forest man Nelson Oliviera.
The Reds have started their Championship campaign in somewhat subdued fashion – although undefeated in their opening five games, winning just one match.
The arrival of Portugal U21 internationals Joao Carvalho, Gil Dias and Diogo Goncalves have added creativity and depth to the Nottingham Forest squad, while strikers Lewis Grabban and Hillal Soudani certainly know where the goal is when given a chance.
But where Forest are arguably lacking is a target man to act as a pivot upfront – a player capable of using height, strength and awareness for fellow attacking players to play off. Gestede would be perfect for this role, with the 6ft 4inch striker among the best players outside the Premier League in the air, while also comfortable with the ball at his feet.
The Benin international hasn’t had the best of times in front of goal in recent seasons, scoring just nine times in his past 50 league appearances. But Nottingham Forest wouldn’t be signing him predominantly to score goals.
In Grabban and Soudani the Reds have players capable of scoring 20 Championship goals this season, but they need a physical player to work off, something that is currently missing at the City Ground.
Gestede is currently out of favour at Boro. He has not yet featured this term, and the Teesside club may feel it would be in their best interests to move him out on loan ahead of a permanent transfer.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
