Latest developments
- Nottingham Forest are pushing hard to sign Jobe Bellingham.
- Tricky Trees will have to fend off rival interest.
- Sunderland set to demand sizeable transfer fee.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Forest make Bellingham contact
It was recently reported that Forest are among six clubs looking to sign Bellingham this summer, along with Chelsea, Manchester United, Brighton, Brentford and Tottenham Hotspur.
According to TEAMtalk, Forest are now ‘pushing hard' to win the race for Bellingham's signature. The report claims that the Tricky Trees have made contact to find out what it will take to land the England Under-21 international.
Value (3/5): Sunderland to set significant asking price
Sunderland are set to demand a significant fee to part ways with the 19-year-old. The Championship club are in a strong negotiation position with the player under contract until the summer of 2028.
Suitability (4/5): Bundles of potential
Bellingham has already proven himself as a capable Championship player, having started all 34 of his league appearances this season, contributing four goals and three assists. He is great at looking after the ball and drawing fouls, while he also has the defensive intelligence to contribute out of possession. At 19, he seems to have all the attributes to succeed at the top level.
Upgrade? (3/5): Competition for places
Bellingham would be looking for a regular starting berth if he decides to leave the Stadium of Light this summer. However, that could prove difficult as Forest have a number of central midfield options, including Danilo, Elliot Anderson, Nicolas Dominguez and Ryan Yates.
While Bellingham has great potential, he will have his work cut out to be one of the first names on the teamsheet. Even if he were to be utilised further forward, he would have to compete with Morgan Gibbs-White for the number 10 spot.
With that said, Bellingham would add valuable depth to Nuno Espirito Santo's side, especially as he can be utilised in advanced and defensive positions.
Logic (4/5): Champions League opportunity
Bellingham could be on the lookout for a new club if Sunderland fail to win promotion to the Premier League. Forest could be a good option if they can hold on to claim a top-five finish and Champions League football for next season. An opportunity to play in Europe's elite club competition would surely appeal to the Sunderland star.
Whisper+ verdict: 16.5/25
Forest could be an appealing option if they qualify for the Champions League. However, we have some doubts as to whether the Tricky Trees will pay a considerable fee to sign a player who will face intense competition for a starting berth.
