Newcastle United striker Chris Wood is reportedly close to signing for Nottingham Forest on loan.
That is according to the Times, who state that Steve Cooper’s side are nearing a deal to bring the 31-year-old to the City Ground.
With Alexander Isak now back from injury, Wood is now Newcastle’s third choice striker. His minutes could be limited in the second half of the season, providing that Isak and Callum Wilson stay fit.
There has been speculation since the summer about Wood leaving, but it always looked likely that he would remain at St James’ Park. However, that may no longer be the case.
Forest are looking for further reinforcements to strengthen their Premier League survival bid, and could be about to sign a striker who was consistently hitting double figures until he signed for Newcastle.
And if a deal is confirmed, it will represent a complete U-turn from Toon officials.
Newcastle had planned to keep Chris Wood amid Nottingham Forest rumour
The Telegraph claimed in December that the Newcastle hierarchy had no plans to sell Wood during the January transfer window. The report also stated that Eddie Howe’s side would not entertain any loan offers for the forward either, with Wood happy with life at St James’ Park.
Fast forward just over a month and the Times believe that Wood is closing in on a temporary switch to Forest.
Something must have changed for Newcastle to have completely changed their minds over the £25million man. The goals haven’t flowed for Wood in black and white, but he has proven to be decent backup option.
Despite becoming third choice, Wood has actually played a lot of football during the current campaign. He has featured in every Newcastle fixture in all competitions this season – bar two fixtures where he was an unused substitute.
He has scored five times since his move from Burnley last year, while Howe described the New Zealander as ‘hugely important‘ back in December.
But now Wood could be on the way out, leaving Newcastle light up top. Perhaps his departure would suggest that a replacement is in the offing.
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