Nottingham Forest's busy summer window is almost at an end, with the Reds looking to put the final pieces of their transfer jigsaw in place before today's 11pm deadline.
Forest have got much of their work done already. Eighteen new additions have been made so far - albeit two immediately went back out on loan - while a number of players have headed in the opposite direction, as boss Steve Cooper has been putting together a squad for the challenge of competing in the Premier League.
All that remains is the finishing touches. Cooper has been making clear for several days now, that incomings and outgoings could still be in the pipeline.
READ MORE: Cooper provides Forest transfer update ahead of deadline day
READ MORE: How the Reds rated against Man City
That includes further defensive reinforcements. Centre-back Willy Boly is expected to become signing number 19, making the switch from Wolverhampton Wanderers.
And full-back Serge Aurier could be the man to provide cover and competition for Neco Williams at right wing-back. The 29-year-old is a free agent after leaving Villarreal and can also play on the left flank.
It remains to be seen if the Reds further add to their attack, with Blackpool winger Josh Bowler, in particular, strongly linked. They will be mindful, however, of the 25-man squad rule, which could make the number of ins related to what happens in terms of exits.
Cooper’s aim is to finish the window with sufficient strength in depth in every position. So far, Taiwo Awoniyi , Dean Henderson, Giulian Biancone, Moussa Niakhate, Omar Richards, Williams, Wayne Hennessey, Harry Toffolo, Lewis O'Brien, Jesse Lingard, Orel Mangala, Emmanuel Dennis, Cheikhou Kouyate, Remo Freuler, Morgan Gibbs-White and Renan Lodi have put pen to paper, with Brandon Aguilera and Hwang Ui-jo also joining but immediately heading back out on loan.
A dressing room overhaul was always going to be necessary following promotion, but also because the Reds have seen several players head elsewhere this summer. And there may yet be further trimming of the squad.
With Alex Mighten having gone out on loan, it may be that the same is thought best for the development of fellow youngster Loic Mbe Soh. Like Mighten, he would also find it tough to get a look-in this season.
Striker Lyle Taylor would be allowed to head elsewhere if a move arises. And midfielder Harry Arter has not been part of the first-team set-up for some time.
What transfer business do Forest still need to do? Have your say in the comments below
READ NEXT:
