Taiwo Awoniyi remains at Nottingham Forest for now, but owner Evangelos Marinakis appears to be planning for the Nigerian striker’s potential replacement this summer.
Awoniyi is set to be fit for Forest’s upcoming clash against Newcastle after recovering from a facial injury sustained during the FA Cup tie against Exeter City. However, his chances of breaking into the starting lineup remain slim.
While Awoniyi’s struggles aren’t entirely his fault, given Chris Wood’s sensational form this season—earning a spot in Jamie Carragher’s Premier League Team of the Season—the 27-year-old has failed to make a significant impact when given opportunities. With just two goals to his name this campaign, compared to Wood’s 18, Awoniyi’s future at the City Ground looks increasingly uncertain.
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo opted to retain Awoniyi as Wood’s backup in January, but questions linger over whether this decision was a stopgap measure or a genuine show of faith. Now, with reports linking Forest to a summer move for Roma striker Tammy Abraham, Awoniyi’s position at the club appears under serious threat.
Awoniyi’s stance amid Abraham links
As TBR Football reports Forest’s interest in Abraham, speculation over Awoniyi’s future has intensified. Nottingham Forest News spoke to TBR’s Graeme Bailey for insight into how Abraham’s potential arrival could affect Awoniyi.
Bailey stated, “Forest could look to upgrade and change up their striker ranks, with Taiwo Awoniyi clearly unhappy with his game time. However, their plans will depend on their final league position.”
Forest’s transfer strategy, including potential striker signings, will likely hinge on whether they secure Champions League qualification. However, Awoniyi’s dissatisfaction with his limited minutes could prompt earlier action. Everton had shown interest in the Nigerian during the January window but did not submit an official bid. That could change if Dane Murphy, who was Forest’s CEO when Awoniyi joined, takes up a similar role at Everton.
Even in the unlikely scenario where both Awoniyi and Abraham end up at Forest, there’s little indication that Awoniyi would see an increase in playing time.
Why Abraham is a better fit for Forest
Abraham’s potential arrival at Forest is bolstered by his existing connections at the club, including his praise for Callum Hudson-Odoi’s performances on Instagram. The English striker’s track record also makes him a more appealing option for Espirito Santo.
While Awoniyi scored 10 goals in his debut Premier League season with Forest, Abraham’s best campaign saw him net 15 for Chelsea. The Roma forward has a proven history of prolific scoring, including 26 Championship goals across two seasons and 27 goals in his first year at Roma.
Espirito Santo had expressed confidence in Awoniyi’s ability to deliver in December, but with little improvement since, the Nigerian’s time at Forest seems to be nearing its end. Abraham, with his experience and goal-scoring pedigree, could be the ideal replacement if Marinakis decides to pursue the move.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Awoniyi’s future hangs in the balance, with Abraham emerging as a prime target to lead Forest’s attack next season.
