Nottingham Forest are looking to offer midfield star Ryan Yates a new contract ahead of his current terms expiring next summer.
The 24-year-old's current contract has him tied down to the City Ground until the summer of 2023, but NottinghamshireLive understands that negotiations are underway with Steve Cooper looking to offer him a new deal.
It is understood that Yates' importance on Trentside makes him a valued member of the squad and is also evidence of the growing pathway for players from the Nigel Doughty Academy into the first-team.
Yates sat out Saturday's 2-0 win over Bristol City as Philip Zinckernagel and boss Cooper said that he - along with stand-in shot-stopper Ethan Horvath - are giving him a "headache" over how he selects the best possible side.
"For sure he's given me food for thought," Cooper said of the American goalkeeper.
"And also, it's never easy leaving Ryan Yates out, I'll be honest with you. It's never an easy decision.
"And it's definitely not an easy conversation, because, for as good a guy he is and as good a professional he is, he's a winner and he does not like sitting in that dugout.
"But that's what we want.
"It was the same with Phil in the last game, and it will be the same with the next game - we will have tough calls to make.
"But I would rather that headache than not having it."
Yates has been an ever-present member of the Nottingham Forest squad this season. He has made 34 appearances so far for the Reds, contributing four goals and one assist across all competitions.
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