Premier League-bound Nottingham Forest are considering a summer move for promising Manchester City defender Issa Kabore.
According to The Northern Echo, Championship playoff winners Nottingham Forest have identified Manchester City starlet Issa Kabore as a potential summer transfer target.
The 21-year-old joined the Premier League champions in 2020 but is yet to make a single first-team appearance for them. He spent the 2021/22 campaign on loan at French side Troyes and gave a good account of his abilities as a defender.
A right-back, Kabore stood out for Burkina Faso at the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year, starring in their incredible run to the semi-finals. He won the Young Player of the Tournament award and looks to be the real deal. However, given the options that Manchester City already have in the position, it is difficult to see Kabore get the nod at the Etihad.
Nottingham Forest had one of the finest young right-backs in England in Djed Spence star for them last season. However, the youngster is on loan from Middlesbrough and is privy to attention from several top clubs from across the country. The newly-promoted Premier League club realize the fight they have on their hands to sign him permanently and are seeking alternatives, one of them being Kabore.
While the 21-year-old might not be a familiar name in England, his ability speaks for itself. A good dribbler, he is also a good crosser of the ball and will add to Nottingham Forest’s attack down the flank. However, he lacks aerial prowess and can be caught out while making some unwise passes.
More so, Kabore also has a poor discipline record. He made 31 Ligue 1 appearances last season, receiving six yellow cards and two reds. Playing in the Premier League will not be easy, and Nottingham Forest are better off bringing in someone who can hold their nerve under pressure.
While the Manchester City starlet has potential, Nottingham Forest needs proven quality that can help them avoid the drop in their first season back in the top flight this century. They will be better served to go all out and land Spence, a player they are already intimately familiar with.
