Brennan Johnson, a player linked with Newcastle United in December is Premier League-ready, according to Martin Keown.
The Nottingham Forest starlet has been enjoying a fine season at the City Ground.
The 20-year-old has made 30 appearance so far this term, and scored seven goals and made five assists.
Such numbers have really drawn attention to him, and the youngster looks set to bank Forest quite a lot of money.
Brentford recently lodged a £18 million bid (plus add-ons) for the attacking midfielder (via Telegraph).
The club were able to hold onto him this time, but it may be a real challenge retaining the starlet beyond the summer window.
Newcastle were linked with a move for the player. The Daily Mail claimed the Magpies had an interest in Johnson. And apparently the likes of Everton, Tottenham and West Ham were all keen as well.
Whether Newcastle look to make an approach this summer could be dependent on whether they retain their Premier League status. But Keown thinks Johnson is ready to play in the top-flight.
He said today as Johnson starred in Forest’ amazing 4-1 win over Leicester City in the FA Cup (via BBC Sport, 5.49pm): “Brennan Johnson has been outstanding. His involvement, pace and intelligence. He is ready-made for the Premier League. Obviously Forest fans will be hoping he stays in Nottingham.”
Johnson scored the game’s second goal, finishing after an awful back-pass from James Justin.
Newcastle face huge competition for Brennan Johnson
Johnson looks like a young player with serious potential.
Against Leicester yesterday, he was a breath of fresh air and just oozed confidence.
Him standing out like that in a game of that magnitude, and in a prime-time TV slot, is only going to draw attention to him him further.
It’s possible many clubs will be in for him this summer.
As rich as Newcastle now are, the club simply cannot hope to compete if they drop into the Championship.
As Keown says, he is ready for the Premier League. And if he’s going to go anywhere this summer, it’ll be to a top-flight club.
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