Nottingham Forest are set to open contract negotiations with Brennan Johnson following the conclusion of the Championship season, according to The Athletic.

Steve Cooper’s side earned promotion to the Premier League following their play-off final victory over Huddersfield Town at the weekend.

The 20-year-old’s current deal with the club expires in 2023, with Forest keen to ensure he is tied down to the Reds on a long-term basis.

It was initially feared that Forest were in danger of losing Johnson with promotion not secured.

But now that Cooper’s side will be competing in the top flight for the first time since 1999, there is optimism that an agreement can be reached.

It is understood that the forward is keen to play for his hometown club in the Premier League with oth parties set to enter talks positively. 

Johnson has had a breakout season at the City Ground, having scored 16 goals and earned 10 assists in his first year with the senior team.

 

 

Forest rejected an offer in January from Brentford for the player, who was essential in helping the team finish in the play-off places.

Cooper took over the side in September from Chris Hughton and led the team to a 4th place finish in the table.

The Verdict

This comes as great news for Forest, with an extension being a big priority for the club’s summer.

While the squad will need improvements, ensuring the future of the exciting youngster might be the most important bit of business that can be done in the next few weeks.

Johnson has been superb and now looks ready to take the leap to the top flight already.

The forward could be a key player in Forest’s inevitable battle to remain in the Premier League next season, and could even be the difference between staying up or going down.