How Nottingham Forest could line up with shock Jesse Lingard transfer

Nottingham Forest are said to be in with a chance of pulling off the surprise signing of free agent Jesse Lingard.

The 29-year-old is on the lookout for a new club after being released by Manchester United this summer. West Ham United had been considered frontrunners for his signature, following a successful loan spell, but it seems the Reds could now seal a shock move.

Head coach Steve Cooper spoke after his team’s 3-1 friendly win over Hertha Berlin about ensuring any new arrivals fit in with his style and ethos; being good characters as well as good players. Should Lingard make the switch to the City Ground, he could certainly slot into the manager’s system - and would bolster an area of the pitch where Forest are in need of strengthening ahead of their Premier League return.

The Reds have brought in 10 new faces so far this summer. Up until now, the majority have been defensive-minded players.

There is competition at centre-back following the arrival of Moussa Niakhate. On Wednesday night, Cooper perhaps offered a glimpse of how his back line might line up against Newcastle United.

Niakhate took up the middle role in a back three, with Joe Worrall on the right and Scott McKenna on the left. Steve Cook will be fighting for that central spot, and was a key part of the ‘Red Wall’ last term which provided a solid foundation for promotion success. McKenna could also play there, with Niakhate on the left.

Neco Williams was in his preferred position of right wing-back against Hertha, having been on the opposite flank at Barnsley on Saturday. The Wales international looked much more comfortable there. Giulian Biancone has also impressed in that role in pre-season, but is also capable of slotting in as the right-sided central