Aston Villa dealt transfer blow as Nottingham Forest in 'advanced' talks over striker

Nottingham Forest are reportedly in 'advanced' talks over Union Berlin forward Taiwo Awoniyi, potentially placing Aston Villa striker Keinan Davis’ future in doubt.

The 24-year-old spent the second half of last season on loan at Forest and became a fans’ favourite at the City Ground. Davis scored five and provided two assists as he returned to fitness in time to help Forest gain promotion back to the Premier League at Wembley, via the play-offs.

However, the chances of him returning to Forest next season are now unclear with Steve Cooper’s side close to a club-record deal for Awoniyi. Having joined German side Union Berlin from Liverpool last summer, the forward scored 15 goals in 31 Bundesliga games this season.

Sister title NottinghamshireLive have reported that the Reds have agreed a £17.5million fee for Awoniyi after matching the striker’s release clause. The Telegraph have also stated that the 24-year-old is ‘expected’ to become the club’s first signing after securing their return to the top-flight.

After impressing during his short spell in The Championship, Villa have reportedly slapped a £15million price tag on Davis, who is also claimed to have attracted interest from Watford . Though with Forest splashing out on a new number nine, it remains to be seen whether Davis will get the opportunity to return to the club this summer.

Villa boss Steven Gerrard has already made his feelings clear about Davis, with fellow Villa striker Cameron Archer also impressing in the EFL. When asked about his returning loan players, Gerrard explained that all players would be analysed during pre-season before a decision is made over their future.

Speaking last month, Gerrard said : "Yeah, it's an interesting few months