Taiwo Awoniyi is set to complete a move from Nottingham Forest to Coventry City in the next 24 hours after receiving an emotional farewell at the City Ground.
The two clubs have agreed a deal believed to be worth around £17million, with only the final contract formalities remaining before the striker becomes a Coventry player.
Awoniyi said goodbye to Forest supporters at half-time during Sunday's 2-0 pre-season victory over Brest, with his teammates giving him a guard of honour.
Manager Oliver Glasner believes the 29-year-old fully deserved the send-off after four years at the club.
Glasner pays tribute to Awoniyi
Awoniyi joined Forest from Union Berlin in 2022 and became a popular figure both inside the dressing room and among supporters.
Glasner praised the striker's character as he prepares to continue his career with Coventry.
“He is a fantastic person,” Glasner said.
“He's not just a very good football player, but also a great person. He's probably one of the loveliest guys I've met.”
The Forest manager also highlighted Awoniyi's commitment whenever he represented the club.
“You always feel he gives 100 per cent for the team. He always gives 100 per cent for the badge and that's why he deserved such a farewell and such a guard of honour.”
Glasner wished Awoniyi well at his next club, joking that he hopes the striker does not enjoy similar success when Coventry face Forest.
Coventry transfer close to completion
The farewell came as Awoniyi's £17m transfer moved towards its final stages.
Coventry are expected to complete the remaining formalities shortly, giving Frank Lampard another experienced Premier League option for their return to the top flight.
Forest's first-team squad had already faced Coventry in a behind-closed-doors friendly, winning 2-0.
A different Forest side then defeated Brest by the same scoreline, with Chris Wood converting a penalty before Luca Netz added the second.
Glasner was pleased with the performance and believes most of his squad are ready for the start of the Premier League campaign.
The main concern is Ryan Yates, who is dealing with a minor problem and could be doubtful for the opening game against Leeds United.
Key Points
- Taiwo Awoniyi is closing in on a £17m move to Coventry City.
- The transfer could be completed within the next 24 hours, with final formalities remaining.
- Awoniyi received an emotional guard of honour at the City Ground.
- Oliver Glasner praised the striker for always giving “100 per cent for the badge”.
- Forest beat Brest 2-0, although Ryan Yates is a doubt for the Premier League opener against Leeds.
What's Next?
Awoniyi is now expected to finalise his move to Coventry, bringing his four-year spell at Nottingham Forest to an end.
For Forest, attention turns towards their Premier League opener against Leeds, with Glasner confident the majority of his squad are ready for competitive action despite the concern surrounding Yates.
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