Sean Dyche unconvinced — but three clubs still want this Nottingham Forest player

Nottingham Forest head coach Sean Dyche currently has several players in his squad who are considered surplus to requirements.

While the Reds have shown greater stability since Dyche’s arrival, the manager has so far been unable to propel Forest up the Premier League standings.

Forest are eager to secure the signing of Lorenzo Lucca this month, with Dyche’s need for a new striker becoming increasingly urgent. Igor Jesus has been forced to shoulder the attacking responsibility, playing virtually every available minute.

Arnaud Kalimuendo has already left the City Ground during the January window, and another of Forest’s summer recruits could soon follow him out of Trentside.

McAtee attracting interest

According to Sky Sports, Porto, Strasbourg and Besiktas are all monitoring James McAtee and are keen to strike a deal before the transfer window closes in under a fortnight.

McAtee has featured for fewer than 500 minutes across all competitions this season and has struggled to make a lasting impression when given opportunities.

The £30 million arrival from Manchester City was tipped to challenge Morgan Gibbs-White for the number ten role, but that competition has failed to materialise.

A temporary departure now appears likely, with Forest prepared to approve a loan move in order to free up squad space.

Long-term value for Forest

Forest must resist the temptation to sell McAtee outright, particularly with an eye on next season when Gibbs-White is expected to move on.

A short-term exit could benefit McAtee, allowing him to gain regular minutes and continue his development.

However, Forest’s summer transfer business has yet to deliver consistent returns, and McAtee’s departure would inevitably spark debate among supporters.

Following McAtee’s half-time withdrawal during Forest’s FA Cup defeat to Wrexham, Dyche suggested that certain players would not be pushing for more minutes going forward.

While those remarks were not explicitly aimed at McAtee, it is increasingly clear that the head coach does not currently see him as part of his Premier League plans.