Hull City manager Nigel Adkins fears that Michael Dawson will depart the club this summer to join Nottingham Forest, according to a report by The Nottingham Post.

Dawson was a major transfer target for Nottingham Forest in the January transfer window and there have been many rumours suggesting that Aitor Karanka is ready to reignite his interest in the veteran defender once again this summer in a bid to bolster his options at the back.

The 34-year-old started his career at Nottingham Forest and could fancy a return to his first club, where he made just shy of 100 senior appearances before joining Tottenham Hotspur.

Dawson has had a sparkling career at the top level, playing well over 300 games for Spurs in all competitions and making four appearances for England.

He joined then-Premier League side Hull in 2014 and he has played 130 games for the Tigers since then.

The current Hull captain has been offered a one year extension at the KCOM Stadium but Forest's offer of a two year deal, plus the chance to rejoin his first club, might just be too tempting an offer for Dawson to refuse.

And Hull manager Adkins acknowledges that, admitting that Dawson may well leave the club at the end of the season.

The Verdict

This is encouraging news for Nottingham Forest, who will be desperate to add his experience and leadership at the back. A return to his first club also seems like a nice way to finish his career. Dawson would be an upgrade on the current options, such as Michael Mancienne, so a move for him on a free transfer seems a no brainer for Aitor Karanka.

N Forest fans - Would you like to sign Dawson on a free this summer? Let us know below...