Nigel Clough has backed Nottingham Forest to exploit the free agent market as they prepare for a busy summer.

The Reds are gearing up for a big season as Chris Hughton's side look to rebuild their playing squad and push themselves into the top half of the Championship table over the next 12 months.

Due to the ongoing economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, clubs in the EFL have been hit particularly hard with transfer funds seemingly limited as teams plot alternative methods to get new signings over the line.

While loan deals could be prominent, Mansfield Town manager Nigel Clough has been discussing Forest's plans for the summer and says that it could be 'tough' for them to do the business that they want.

Speaking to Nottinghamshire Live, Clough said: "You'll definitely have to be clever with free transfers. We've not paid a fee this year and I don't think we will be.

"Good players will always be in demand. They'll still command good deals.

"Unfortunately, there's going to be a lot of players unable to get clubs, but the best ones will always get fixed up.

"That applies to the Championship and everywhere else. You ask any manager, and they'll say recruitment is tough."

The verdict

Nigel Clough is absolutely right in his assessment of Nottingham Forest's summer plans.

Funds are going to be limited through the EFL but for Forest it could be a really tricky time as they look to cut costs after an expensive few years.

Thankfully for them, there are plenty of talented players who are going to be available on free transfers this summer and so there's a good chance that they'll be able to get what they need in that market.

However with plenty of competition it's likely that Chris Hughton's side will need to move quickly.