Nottingham Forest are preparing a summer bid for Gillingham midfielder Kyle Dempsey, according to Football Insider.

Forest secured mathematical safety with a 1-1 draw with Stoke City at the weekend, and Chris Hughton will now be looking towards the summer as he looks to strengthen his squad.

According to Football Insider, one player on their radar is Gillingham captain Kyle Dempsey, who was linked with a move to the City Ground back in January.

Dempsey has been in fine form for Gillingham this season, scoring eight goals and registering four assists from central midfield in 38 League One appearances.

The midfielder joined the Gills from Fleetwood Town in the summer, and has made 42 appearances across all competitions for the club this season.

Football Insider now claim that Forest are set to reignite their interest in the midfielder, who is said to be valued at a price of around £500,000 to £750,000.

The Verdict

This would be a really positive signing for Forest.

First and foremost, goals have been a problem for them this season, so whilst they will look to bring in a striker this summer, they could also do with some from midfield.

It remains to be seen whether they can lure James Garner back on loan from Manchester United next season, so there would be scope to bring in another central midfielder if they failed to do so.

It would also signal a change of direction. Dempsey is a young, unproven midfielder looking to prove himself, whilst the likes of Harry Arter and Jack Colback arrived on big money last season and are at the end of their careers.