Nottingham Forest’s Callum Hudson-Odoi reacts to Kurt Zouma amid contract talks
Nottingham Forest forward Callum Hudson-Odoi could be the second key star to leave the club this summer as discussions over a new deal continue.
Forest are already on the verge of losing winger Anthony Elanga after a £55million deal was agreed with Newcastle.
Nuno Espirito Santo already has a replacement lined up for Elanga with former Toon target Johan Bakayoko now linked with a move to the City Ground.
However, Hudson-Odoi could also depart as the winger has just 12 months remaining on his current deal, and Forest want to tie the 24-year-old down to a new contract.
Zouma post gains former team mate’s reaction
Hudson-Odoi and Zouma were team mates at Stamford Bridge for several seasons, before the centre-back left to join London rivals West Ham in 2021.
The Frenchman is a free agent following the expiry of his contract at the Hammers.
Zouma though is taking a break from football matters as shown by his Instagram where he shared pictures from his post-season holiday, which Hudson-Odoi liked.
The post was captioned: “Because brothers don’t let each other wander in the dark alone.”
Elanga sale means Hudson-Odoi can’t be allowed to leave
Football Insider Verdict
Hudson-Odoi was a key player for Forest last season and after already losing Elanga, Santo needs to ensure the 24-year-old stays at the club.
The winger was a key part of Santo’s counter-attacking approach and he was able to become an integral player for a club following his time at Chelsea and unsuccessful loan spell at Bayer Leverkusen.
| Appearances | 31 |
| Goals | 5 |
| Assists | 3 |
With just a year left on his deal, he could start speaking to club’s in January and potentially leave on a free transfer.
Forest have already been able to tie full-backs Neco Williams and Ola Aina down to new contracts, so they will be hopeful they can do the same with Hudson-Odoi.
Santo though is eyeing PSV winger Bakayoko and the Portuguese manger has already moved for Igor Jesus to support striker Chris Wood.
The arrival of Edu as the club’s new Global Head of Football to oversee recruitment following his time at Arsenal, is also a positive boost for Santo.
There is bound to be more additions as the club compete in the Europa Conference League for the first time next season whilst juggling domestic affairs.