Nottingham Forest should look to re-sign forward Ben Brereton Diaz on loan from Spanish side Villarreal in January.

The 24-year-old left the City Ground back in 2019 to join Blackburn Rovers for a deal in the region of £7.5 million.

Although he struggled at first, Brereton Diaz went on to become a fan favourite, before joining La Liga side Villarreal on a free transfer this summer.

However, just four months into his four-year contract, the forward has been told he’s allowed to leave on loan to gain more regular game time.

A Brereton Diaz return to Forest?

On the face of it, it may seem like a very bold opinion, however, a deal for the 24-year-old could make sense in January.

With Brereton Diaz failing to make a real impact in Spain, a loan deal to return to the City Ground may be a great deal for all parties.

There is no better manager in football than Steve Cooper for getting the best out of his players.

With the forward lacking confidence after just two starts in La Liga, he is in desperate need of a supportive manager to get him back to the levels shown at Ewood Park.

The Reds should also look at the 24-year-old because of the current forward-line situation.

Taiwo Awoniyi still isn’t 100% after his groin problem, with the Nigerian likely to go to AFCON at the start of 2024.

Injuries to Chris Wood, Callum Hudson-Odoi and Divock Origi have left the Reds depleted for options in the attacking third.

The Reds would face competition for Brereton Diaz

Southampton, Crystal Palace and Burnley are all said to be interested in signing the forward in January, with Forest to face competition for his signature should they enter the race.

With the deal being a loan until the end of the season, the deal is risk-free for Cooper’s side.

Brereton Diaz enjoyed a successful spell in the Championship for Blackburn last season, scoring 14 times in 39 games – with the former Red more than deserving of a Premier League opportunity.

His versatility of being able to play anywhere across the frontline could be a key asset for the Reds as they look for depth in forward areas.