This article is part of Football League World's 'The Verdict' series, which provides personal opinions from the FLW writers regarding the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings and more...

Nottingham Forest manager Sabri Lamouchi looks like he will have to prepare for life without midfielder Ben Osborn, with newly promoted Sheffield United on the verge of finalising a deal for the 24-year-old, as reported in the Nottingham Post.

Forest have already turned down an initial £3million bid from the Blades but with the player only having a year left on his current deal, the club risk seeing him leave for nothing next summer.

So how big a blow would the loss of Osborn be to Forest?

We discuss.........

George Brooks

"I'm not too sure what to make of this one.

"Osborn is an accomplished midfielder in the Championship and he's been an important player for Nottingham Forest over the past few years.

"However, he has one year remaining on his contract at the City Ground, so it makes sense for Forest to sell him during this transfer window, rather than allow him to leave for free next summer.

"I'm not convinced he's good enough to start in the Premier League every week and I think £3million represents a good deal for Forest, especially when you consider he has one year left on his contract.

"If Lamouchi can use that money to find a good replacement for Osborn before the start of the new season, then I don't think it's a major blow for Forest to lose him."

George Dagless

"I personally think that it is.

"I know that he divides opinion at Forest and some fans will be fairly content to see him leave but I think it says a lot that Chris Wilder wants him in the Premier League.

"He's a player that always gives his all and can do so in a number of positions across the football pitch.

"He's committed and professional and has quality with that left foot whilst it is clear that there is room to grow.

"For me, I think Sheffield United are doing well to be getting him in this summer for sure."

Gary Hutchinson

“Yeah, it’s a blow alright. Not the biggest they could receive this summer, but certainly a blow.

“It’s not on the same level as losing Joe Lolley, but it’s a player they still have to replace. Osborn is a worker, he’s always committed and displays a great attitude. That’s why he’ll fit in well with Sheffield United.

“In terms of actual input, one goals and five assists isn’t world-class but it’s a contribution. They’ll be able to replace that, but it’s getting close enough to the start of the season for it to be a real pain.

“The blow is as much about the timing as it is losing a player. The season is ten days away, no time at all.”