This article is part of Football League World’s ‘The Verdict’ series, offering personal opinions from FLW writers on the latest breaking news, teams, players, managers, potential signings, and more.
Coventry City have entered the race with Sheffield United to sign Nottingham Forest defender Joe Worrall, as reported by Alan Nixon on Patreon.
The Sky Blues are aiming for a productive summer to close the gap to the play-offs and secure a spot in the Premier League.
With likely comings and goings at the CBS Arena this summer, Nottingham Forest’s Joe Worrall has emerged on Coventry’s radar.
Sheffield United have long been linked with Worrall, with TEAMtalk reporting that the Blades have initiated talks with Forest regarding a move. While Worrall is reportedly keen on the move, Coventry’s entry into the race could change things. Nixon suggests that Coventry are interested in a loan deal for the central defender this summer, though this type of arrangement might be unlikely at this stage.
Worrall is contracted at the City Ground until the summer of 2026, but having fallen out of favor at Forest and spending the second half of last season on loan at Besiktas, a move seems plausible this summer.
As this news breaks, we asked some Football League World writers for their thoughts on Coventry joining the race for Joe Worrall and whether it would be a beneficial move for both the player and the club.
**Brett Worthington:**
Joe Worrall is very likely to leave Nottingham Forest this transfer window, having fallen out of favor at the club.
He spent the second half of last season on loan at Besiktas, where he played but perhaps didn’t have an ideal experience.
Now back at the City Ground with an uncertain future, it appears Forest is looking to move him on this window.
Worrall has options, with both Sheffield United and Coventry City keen on him. However, the deals are proving to be complicated.
The Blades are awaiting their takeover, while the Sky Blues prefer a loan deal rather than a permanent transfer.
Coventry could be a good fit for Worrall, but between the two clubs, Worrall may prefer a move to Bramall Lane.
Sheffield United is expected to be a top contender in the Championship, competing for promotion. Moreover, Coventry’s interest in a loan deal might not align with Worrall’s desire for a long-term solution rather than another temporary stint.
For Coventry, however, securing Worrall would be an impressive feat if they manage to finalize the deal.
Mark Robins made significant defensive signings last summer, including Liam Kitching, Joel Latibeaudiere, and Bobby Thomas.
While these players were impressive last season, adding Worrall would be a considerable upgrade, although it seems unlikely at this stage of the transfer window.
