Opinion: Nottingham Forest should cash-in on 28-year-old this summer

The Athletic’s David Ornstein broke the news, much to the surprise of many surrounding the Premier League-bound club.

The 28-year old still has 12 months remaining in his current deal, but it has left Forest in a difficult position.

Samba has been a crucial player under Steve Cooper and his shootout heroics in the play-offs only enhanced his reputation.

His three penalty saves against Sheffield United capped off a remarkable performance against the Blades to help secure a place in Wembley.

Forest ultimately earned promotion following a 1-0 win over Huddersfield Town in that play-off final in the famous London stadium. 

With promotion having been secured, it was expected that the club would maintain the side that has played so well since Cooper’s appointment in September.

However, the goalkeeper has now given the Reds an uncomfortable decision to make.

But that decision is ultimately an obvious one.

Now is the time for Forest to cash-in on the former Marseille man. French club Lens registered their interest in his services this week, and the Nottinghamshire club should look to complete a sale.

While he has become a fan favourite, there is no room for sentimentality for Forest at this stage.

His possible departure would not spell a disaster for the team and the Congo-born player is more than replaceable.

Even his performances in the regular season showed that his error-prone nature made him a possible liability in the Premier League.

While a contract agreement would be welcomed, if Forest have the opportunity to sell then they should be taking it.

There are plenty of goalkeeping options available this summer, even if only on loan in some cases.

The likes of Dean Henderson and Caoimhin Kelleher could be realistic targets