Two-time UEFA Champions League winners, Nottingham Forest, have set clear terms for a potential Taiwo Awoniyi exit this month, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 27-year-old has fallen down the pecking order in Forest’s attack, losing his starting spot to in-form Kiwi striker, Chris Wood.
Awoniyi has managed just one Premier League goal this term from sixteen outings, although he started just two of those.
He’s largely been the second-choice at the City Ground since Nuno Espirito Santo took over the coaching reins in December 2023. With his minutes on the substitute’s bench increasing, it has been reported that some teams are looking to secure the Nigerian’s services.
As earlier reported by Soccernet.ng, Graham Potter’s West Ham United are looking to bring Awoniyi in after injuries ruled Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen out of football action until next season.
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However, the Hammers face a big problem in their pursuit of the former Union Berlin striker. As per West Ham Fans, Nottingham Forest have made it clear to the one-time UEFA Europa Conference League winners that they’re only willing to accept a loan with an obligation to buy or a straight purchase in the region of £30m for Awoniyi.
While the London-based club are desperate for a number nine in the January transfer window, Forest’s requirements have made them turn their attention to RB Leipzig centre-forward, Andre Silva.
West Ham are simply unwilling to splash a huge amount of money on a player like Awoniyi with a poor injury record and worrisome goalscoring form.
The 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner has sustained two long-term injuries in quick succession. A damaging groin injury last season saw him out for 18 games, and a recurrence of the same saw him miss another 14 games, meaning Awoniyi has missed 32 games for The Reds in the past year.
Awoniyi’s stance on a move away from Nottingham Forest is currently unknown, but it is unlikely the Nigerian will want to walk away after the brilliant season his side are enjoying in the English Premier League.