Transfer Talk: Forest Nott in any hurry to cash in on Brennan

Brennan Johnson looks set to be a wanted man this summer with a number of Premier League rivals set to test Nottingham Forest's resolve. 

Brentford are reported to have already made a bid and more offers are likely to materialise over the coming weeks. 

The 22-year-old scored eight top-flight goals last season, having previously played a crucial role in the club's promotion from the Championship. 

Ahead of the Welsh international representing his country against Armenia, we take a look at what the future might hold for Johnson. 

Bees buzzing

It has been reported that Brentford have already submitted a £30million bid for the fleet-footed forward. 

The Bees have targeted the versatile ace at a time when they are set to start the season without the banned Ivan Toney. 

Yet they will have to up their bid to stand any chance of securing Johnson.

It has been suggested that a figure of £50m would be required for Steve Cooper to even consider relinquishing one of his prize assets. 

With the likes of Aston Villa, Everton and West Ham all reported to also be interested in Johnson, it is not hard to imagine the bidding reaching that level. 

Brentford have previously tried to sign the forward in the summer of 2021 and again in January 2022. 

The Londoners may be determined to sign Johnson but they face major competition from bigger sides, which now arguably includes Forest themselves thanks to their return to the top tier. 

On the same Page

Johnson's father David was also a footballer, making 165 appearances for Nottingham Forest between 2001 and 2006. 

Wales manager Robert Page spoke out this week about the speculation surrounding the youngster and the advantages of having a family that know the business. 

Page said: "He is a great lad and I think he has got a great support network around him. 

"I was impressed with the way they conducted themselves in January [2022] when his head could have been turned and he could have had the opportunity to go to what was so-called a bigger club. 

"He didn't and I thought he made the right decision for his development. 

"I trust the people around him to give him good advice. He is a level-headed lad. He's sensible and his full focus will be on this game on Friday." 

Value rising

Johnson is now a key player for Wales, who are looking to rebuild after the retirement of Gareth Bale. 

The same is true for Forest, with the academy product having played in all 38 of their Premier League games last season. 

Across all competitions he scored ten goals, adding to the 19 that he scored when the club were promoted from the Championship. 

Last season, Johnson played at various times as a centre forward, a supporting striker, an attacking midfielder and a right winger. 

Even with a fee as big as £50m, Forest would struggle to find a player with similar versatility. 

In addition, Johnson's speed was an important ingredient for a side that largely play on the counter-attack. 

If the Tricky Trees can keep hold of the forward and find a regular role for him in a more settled side, he could be worth much more than the figures being touted before long.