Since Aitor Karanka took over at Nottingham Forest, he has been linked with swoops for his former Middlesbrough charges and the top target that has emerged as Adam Clayton. 

Clayton found himself out of the Boro team under Garry Monk and while he has come closer to the first-team picture under Tony Pulis, it is thought that he would still listen to offers for the former Huddersfield man.

The midfielder is top of Forest's wishlist and it was thought that the wheels were in motion to bring him to the club but Pulis's update, speaking as he prepares his Boro side to host Brighton in the fourth round of the FA Cup, appears to contradict that.

He told the club's official website: "If Aitor was going to take Clayts or anyone, I think he’d give me a ring or the club a ring.

"I don’t think the club have received any phone calls off Forest for Clayton at this present moment."

The Verdict

Whether Pulis is bluffing remains to be seen, because it would be surprising if Forest hadn't even been in contact over a deal for a man who is supposedly their top transfer target.

Karanka should have a decent relationship with his former club but it would appear that there have been complications somewhere down the line.

Boro fans - would you let Clayton go or keep him at the Riverside? Forest fans - are you happy with the man you have as your top target? Let us know in the comments below...