Nottingham Forest will have to agree a deal with Newcastle for Jack Colback after it was revealed he is not out of contract in the summer.

Boss Martin O'Neill told Nottinghamshire Live earlier this week that he would be assessing the situation regarding the 29-year-old, who has been a key player for the Reds this season.

The same report also claimed that Colback's deal with the Magpies is up in the summer, which means he would be available on a free.

However, Chronicle Live have said that's not the case, with the ex-Sunderland man contracted to Newcastle until the summer of 2020.

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Therefore, Forest will have to agree a deal with the Premier League side in the summer if they want to extend his stay at the City Ground.

And, the report didn't rule out Colback actually returning to Newcastle to fight for his place, although that will be dependent on whether Rafa Benitez stays as he is not a fan of the player.

Either way, the aggressive midfielder will see out the season with Forest and is expected to start against East Midlands rivals Derby on Monday.

The Verdict

This makes a deal for Colback slightly more complicated for Forest in the summer as they will have to agree a fee with Newcastle now.

But, with a year left on his deal he won't cost much, although it could still be a bit tricky.

Ultimately though, that can wait and the focus for the club and the player will just be on doing all they can to make the top six.

Thoughts? Let us know in the comments below.