Nottingham Forest have a number of players whose futures may be called into question over the summer, including World Cup winner Gonzalo Montiel.
The Reds performer joined the City Ground in the summer of 2023, initially on a season-long loan with the option to buy.
It’s safe to say that Montiel’s Forest experience has not gone quite as planned. He’s only made 14 appearances across all competitions and hasn’t played since February.
Under Steve Cooper, the defender started only twice and did not make the grade. David Prutton questioned Montiel following his debut City Ground appearance for Forest against Burnley.
Under Nuno Espirito Santo, he was initially given a reprieve, but an injury has delayed his growth, and he is now considered a backup option off the bench.
Neco Williams has now taken over at right back. He’s been one of the most improved players this season, which has made life difficult for Montiel at Forest.
Naturally, Montiel will be one of many players wondering what the future holds for Forest. Now, some information has surfaced about the individual who owns a World Cup winner’s medal.
Report delivers update on Forest future of Gonzalo Montiel
This may not surprise you, but it appears that Forest has no plans to maintain Montiel beyond the summer.
The player has not played since hobbling out of the action as Forest won an FA Cup replay against Bristol City in February.
According to Orgullo Biri, the Reds have told Sevilla that they will not exercise the defender’s purchase option this summer.
Montiel will not play the requisite amount of games for Forest to activate an obligatory purchase option, therefore his future appears questionable.
It is said that this is a setback for Sevilla, who had expected to get £9 million for his services at the end of his loan deal.
The La Liga team must now aim to persuade another club to sign him permanently as they look to balance their books this summer.
However, the article claims that, while there is already interest in loaning Montiel for next season, selling him may suddenly prove difficult.
Forest right to offload surplus defender
Espirito Santo appeared to be a perfect fit for Montiel for a little moment. At Christmas, the defender performed admirably against Newcastle and Manchester United, and it appeared like a turning point had been reached.
However, he has battled to keep fit, and he has been a victim of Williams stepping in and seizing his opportunity with both hands.
Forest doesn’t see much benefit in signing Montiel on a permanent basis. Ola Aina can also cover right-back, and Williams has the potential to be the number one for many years.
Montiel is unquestionably a player at 27 years old, but he hasn’t exactly lit up the Premier League, and we believe this is a reasonable move by Forest.
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