West Ham United boss David Moyes has been a long-term admirer of Nottingham Forest centre-back Joe Worrall, according to journalist Pete O'Rourke who spoke to Give Me Sport.

The 24-year-old has been a key asset for the Reds once again this term, playing a key part in helping his side to remain afloat in the division last season despite their lack of attacking threat.

Forming a formidable partnership with Scott McKenna, he has also adapted well to playing alongside former AFC Bournemouth captain Steve Cook and has stepped up exceptionally well in the absence of the duo, helping to keep Carabao Cup winners Liverpool at bay for the majority of last weekend's FA Cup clash at the City Ground.

This performance has only generated more attention for the centre-back who was already receiving plaudits prior to this clash against Jurgen Klopp's men, with scouts from West Ham, Brighton and Everton thought to have been at that game to take a closer look at him.

It remains to be seen whether any side makes a formal approach for Worrall the summer comes along with Forest keen to retain their most valuable assets - and they will demand a sizeable fee for his services considering his contract in the East Midlands doesn't expire until 2024.

This may not deter the Hammers' boss Moyes though, with the former Manchester United manager thought to have been impressed by the 24-year-old for a while now.

That's according to report O'Rourke, who said: "I think David Moyes is a long-term admirer of Joe Worrall; he was interested in previous transfer windows. Worrall has done well for Forest this year."

The Verdict:

It's no surprise that Moyes has been an admirer for a while - because Worrall has been a successful performer for a while now and has been consistent - a key reason why he has attracted interest from top-tier teams.

He certainly has all the ingredients needed to play in the top tier - but whether Forest will be willing to let him go for a reasonable price remains to be seen with the Reds aiming to be in the top flight within the next season or two.

Worrall is a key cog in their machine and with over two years to go until his current deal expires, they may not be willing to sell the defender for a fee less than £20m, that's how good he has been for Steve Cooper's side.

Would this be a good move for the centre-back though? He faces a similar situation to Brennan Johnson, in terms of knowing he will get plenty of game time at the City Ground but being in the dark in terms of whether he would be a regular starter or not if he takes the step up.

He needs to focus on his football until he knows which division his current side will be competing in next season though, because as an academy graduate, the ideal scenario has to be playing at the City Ground next term if they are promoted.