Goalkeeper Dean Henderson is “convinced” a permanent move to Nottingham Forest will go through this summer.
The Reds are eager to sign the Manchester United shot-stopper following his successful loan spell on the banks of the Trent last season. They need to address their goalkeeping situation for the upcoming Premier League campaign, and Henderson is seen as a priority target.
The 26-year-old is keen on a return to the City Ground, and United are believed to be willing to let him leave. However, clarity is needed on David de Gea’s future before anything can be sorted with his teammate.
According to our sister paper the Manchester Evening News, Henderson is “convinced” he will join Forest permanently. It is said he is understood to be “perplexed” by suggestions he could remain at Old Trafford.
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Nevertheless, United’s complex goalkeeper situation could delay his “expected departure”, even though the club are “planning” his sale. De Gea’s contract comes to an end this week, with the MEN reporting a new No.1 is on the shopping list.
It means patience may be required for the Reds in trying to secure Henderson’s signature. Agreeing a fee may also present a challenge, although the Daily Mail have said a £15 million, plus add-ons, deal is being lined up.
Henderson was a key figure for Forest as they secured Premier League survival last term. A thigh injury prevented him from featuring in the second half of the campaign, but he remained a big presence in the dressing room.
Keylor Navas was brought in from PSG to cover in Henderson’s absence, but with both players having been loanees, the Reds have been left with a hole to fill. Forest currently have Wayne Hennessey, who was back-up stopper last season, Ethan Horvath and youngster George Shelvey on the books. Horvath spent the campaign on loan at Luton Town and is likely to move on.
