Nottingham Forest manager Sabri Lamouchi wants in-demand midfielder Ben Osborn to stay at the club this summer. 

According to a report from the Sheffield Star, Premier League new boys Sheffield United are closing in on a deal for the 24-year-old as Chris Wilder looks to bolster his squad.

Osborn would be Wilder's fifth signing of the summer and the third from a Championship side, following the additions of Luke Freeman from QPR and Callum Robinson from Preston North End.

The midfielder developed through the Forest youth setup and has made 230 appearances for the club, including 44 last season

Lamouchi took charge of the Nottingham side at the end of June following the sacking of Martin O'Neill.

Speaking to the Nottingham Post after the Reds' pre-season friendly against Olympiacos, the new boss had nothing but praise for Englishman.

He said: "I heard about Sheffield’s interest, but I cannot complain about his attitude. Ben is doing a great job for us in training and in the game he played well.

"I am happy with him. Of course, I would like to see him stay.

“He likes the club and I like what I saw tonight. In three weeks here, I have only seen positives with him.

“The players know what I am thinking about Ben. In three weeks, it is not enough time. But I am very happy with what I have seen from him."

The Verdict

It is understandable that Lamouchi would want Osborn to be part of his plans moving forward, the 24-year-old has already been an excellent servant to the club and offers real versatility.

He is comfortable playing anywhere across the midfield and has also provided regular cover at left-back.

The move would be on-brand for Wilder, whose transfer plan this summer seems to have been to swoop for some of the best talents in the Championship.

The Blades boss has already signed Freeman and Robinson and has been linked for moves for Neal Maupay from Brentford and Oli McBurnie from Swansea City.