'Forever' - Brice Samba confirms Nottingham Forest exit with emotional farewell

Nottingham Forest goalkeeper Brice Samba has sent an emotional message to Reds supporters ahead of his imminent transfer to Lens.

The 28-year-old is understood to have had a medical today ahead of signing a contract at the French club, bringing to an end three years at the City Ground. Samba is believed to have turned down the offer of a new contract from the Reds.

After a string of impressive performances during his time as a Forest player, Samba will be most fondly remembered for his penalty saves in the play-off semi-final shootout against Sheffield United at the City Ground in May. His performances throughout the season, and in the final, were key to the Reds earning promotion.

In a farewell message posted on his Twitter account on Tuesday afternoon, Samba thanked the fans and everybody associated with the club, saying that he is "forever Forest" and will cherish the memories he made.

He wrote: "To the fans, to my partners, my coaches, to the staff and everyone at the club. Anyone that I've met that have helped me during my time here. Thank you so much. I'll keep these memories close to my heart. I've never felt nothing like this before. Forever Forest."

The Reds have already signed Dean Henderson on loan from Manchester United this summer and have been linked with veteran Burnley stopper Wayne Hennessey.