Big Brennan Johnson transfer claim made ahead of Nottingham Forest play-off final

Nottingham Forest star Brennan Johnson is capable of playing for a "top-six" club now, according to Wales national team manager Robert Page.

Johnson has played a key role in Nottingham Forest's run to the play-offs this season, contributing 19 goals and nine assists in all competitions, and is now helping the Reds prepare for their Championship play-off final clash against Huddersfield Town.

The two sides will meet at Wembley Stadium on Sunday (May 29) with a place in the Premier League as reward for the winning side. Whether Forest win promotion at the weekend or not, it seems incredibly likely that Johnson will be playing in the top-flight next season.

The brilliant Nigel Doughty Academy graduate still has another 12 months left on his current deal, but he has been consistently linked with moves to the Premier League - more than half of top-flight clubs having been credited with an interest in the 21-year-old.

Brentford led most of the transfer interest in Johnson, although Forest rejected numerous offers including one which reportedly would have been a club record fee.

Now, however, Wales manager Page believes that those interested in the winter may well have lost their chance to sign the forward due to him displaying a capability to play for even bigger teams.

"Brennan is the future of Welsh football and I think he’s top-six (Premier League) now," said Page. He’s shown he’s got that potential and ability. I’ve seen it in him for a long time and it’s been great to watch his development.

"I think that the teams showing interest in him in January have lost out now."

Johnson has scored 14 of his 19 goals since the new year as Forest’s rise under Steve Cooper has gathered pace. He was on target in both legs of the