EPL: Nottingham Forest’s Transfer Terms for Taiwo Awoniyi Revealed

Nottingham Forest Sets Clear Terms for Taiwo Awoniyi Transfer Amid Interest from West Ham United

Two-time UEFA Champions League winners Nottingham Forest have made their position clear regarding a potential exit for Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi. The 27-year-old forward has struggled for consistent playing time this season and could be on his way out of the City Ground if the right terms are met.

According to reports from Soccerbaba, Nottingham Forest has laid out firm conditions for Awoniyi’s departure, signaling that only a loan deal with an obligation to buy or a straight transfer worth approximately £30 million will be considered.

Awoniyi’s Challenges at Nottingham Forest

Awoniyi has faced a challenging season, scoring just one Premier League goal in 16 appearances. The striker has only started two games, with the in-form Chris Wood occupying the starting role since Nuno Espírito Santo took over as head coach in December 2023.

The Nigerian international has largely been relegated to a substitute role, raising questions about his future at the club. Despite his reduced role, Awoniyi’s potential has caught the attention of other teams, including Graham Potter’s West Ham United.

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West Ham United’s Interest

West Ham United, struggling with injuries to key players Michail Antonio and Jarrod Bowen, is reportedly keen on adding Awoniyi to their roster during the January transfer window. However, the Hammers are hesitant to meet Forest’s £30 million valuation for the striker.

Instead, the London club has shifted its focus toward other targets, including RB Leipzig’s Andre Silva. Awoniyi’s injury history and inconsistent form have made West Ham reluctant to make a significant financial commitment.

Awoniyi’s Injury Concerns

One of the main deterrents for potential suitors is Awoniyi’s injury record. Over the past year, he has missed a combined total of 32 games due to recurring groin injuries. Last season, the Nigerian striker was sidelined for 18 matches, and a relapse of the same issue caused him to miss another 14 games.

This injury-prone track record, combined with his recent form, has cast doubts over his ability to deliver consistent performances at the highest level.

A Look Back at Awoniyi’s Career

Taiwo Awoniyi’s journey has been marked by promise and resilience. A product of the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup-winning Nigerian team, Awoniyi gained attention for his impressive performances on the international stage. He later moved to Europe, signing with Union Berlin, where he enjoyed a breakout spell in the Bundesliga before joining Nottingham Forest.

Awoniyi’s debut Premier League season was more fruitful, with the forward scoring 10 league goals and helping Forest avoid relegation. However, injuries have since hampered his ability to replicate that success.

What’s Next for Awoniyi?

As the January transfer window unfolds, Awoniyi’s future remains uncertain. While Nottingham Forest is enjoying a stellar season in the English Premier League, the striker’s lack of playing time could motivate him to seek a fresh start elsewhere.

For now, it appears that Forest is in no rush to sell their striker unless their financial demands are met. Whether West Ham or another club steps up with an offer that satisfies Forest’s terms remains to be seen.

West Ham’s Dilemma

The Hammers’ need for a new striker is pressing, but their unwillingness to invest heavily in Awoniyi has complicated negotiations. Nottingham Forest’s valuation of £30 million reflects their desire to secure a significant return on their investment, but it also underscores their belief in Awoniyi’s potential when fully fit.

Taiwo Awoniyi’s situation at Nottingham Forest highlights the complexities of balancing player value, form, and fitness in modern football. While West Ham United’s interest indicates there is still faith in his abilities, the striker’s future will ultimately depend on whether a club is willing to meet Nottingham Forest’s terms.

For now, Awoniyi remains a Nottingham Forest player, but the January transfer window could bring significant changes to his career trajectory.