Reports claim that Nottingham Forest would like to sign Jack Colback permanently from Newcastle United following the successful 6-month loan spell. The 28-year-old made 16 appearances for the Championship outfit since his January switch while netting the ball once.
This is a move which makes sense for both parties involved. Rafael Benitez, who still holds the managerial seat at St James’ Park, has no further use for Colback. The player had a suspected fallout with the Spaniard and was not allowed to feature for the club during the entire first half of the campaign.
The 28-year-old made the switch from Sunderland to the Tyneside club in 2014 on a free transfer and has racked up over 100 appearances in the past 3 seasons. He had rejected the new long-term deal that was offered to him at the time and instead left on a free transfer, much to the dismay of the Wearside fans.
If you are aware of the rivalry that exists between the two sides, you will know that a move like this is almost unheard of, especially with players who have served one side for much of their playing careers. Colback has 135 games under his belt for the Black Cats along with 5 goals and 7 assists.
As evident from Benitez’s intentions, the 1-time England U20 international will have to find himself a new home in the coming summer. City Park has already proven to be a welcoming residence and Aitor Karanka the warm host.
Colback not only will get to play on regular occasions for the Reds, he might also be involved in a possible promotion run next season. Nottingham finished the season in the 17th spot of the league table this season and are eager to make significant improvements in the next.
The 28-year-old has partnered up well with Liam Bridcutt, Adlene Guedioura and Andreas Bouchalakis in the holding midfield role to drive the team’s offence. He clearly has a lot of top-pedigree football left in him and could make a real name for himself at West Bridgford.
However, the player’s wages could prove to be a real hiccup as Colback reportedly banks £40,000-per-week in his current contract with the Magpies and still has 12 months of obligation left.
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If Forest can cut themselves an affordable deal with the player, this move can turn out to be highly lucrative and Newcastle will be freeing up quite a bit space in their wage books.