Nottingham Forest must accelerate Liam Delap move after Leeds expose rot

Nottingham Forest's desperate need for a new striker was highlighted once more as they were beaten 1-0 by Leeds United in Saturday's Premier League opener.

Anton Stach's late free-kick was the difference between the sides at the City Ground, with Oliver Glasner's tenure off to a disappointing start.

There is plenty of pressure on the Tricky Trees in the remaining days of the transfer window, amid what has been a frustrating summer.

Nottingham Forest have made just two competitive additions to their squad, with the incomings of Ousmane Diomande and Xaver Schlager.

Despite selling Elliot Anderson in a £116million deal to Manchester City at the start of the window, and Taiwo Awoniyi to Coventry City earlier this week, just £34m has been spent on improving Glanser's options.

Nottingham Forest have been named among the clubs interested in Liam Delap, who is available this summer.

Nottingham Forest's striking woes exposed vs Leeds

Saturday's game was ultimately one decided by a moment of brilliance from Stach, but Nottingham Forest had their chances.

The home side took 12 shots, and had several good opportunities through Igor Jesus, who could not find the net.

Chris Wood's introduction saw a good chance fall to him, too, but he could only hit his shot well wide.

Arnaud Kalimuendo was handed just one minute on the pitch and failed to even touch the ball, with all three options sharing a lack of ability to put the ball into the net.

When Nottingham Forest enjoyed success last season, it was often when Jesus was paired with a more physical striker.

The Brazilian looked to need that partner once more against Leeds, but there was no Awoniyi to turn to and Wood is yet to return to his pre-injury form.

Delap would represent that profile for Nottingham Forest, and there may be no choice but to make a move for the striker in the closing days of the window.

Nottingham Forest represents opportunity for Liam Delap

Just 12 months ago, Delap was highly touted off the back of a 12-goal Premier League season for Ipswich Town.

Chelsea pulled the trigger, but the striker scored just three goals across 49 appearances in his first season at Stamford Bridge.

The 23-year-old has been said to want to fight for his place with the Blues, but Nottingham Forest may present a chance to revive his career.

Delap is reportedly available for £50m this summer, but Chelsea are willing to negotiate that fee.