Defender Raillo turned down opportunity to move to Nottingham Forest in January

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RCD Mallorca defender Antonio Raillo says Nottingham Forest tried to sign him during the January transfer window, as per Spanish outlet AS as relayed by the Nottingham Post.

Martin O’Neill did his utmost to boost the squad he inherited from Aitor Karanka in order to push his new charges into play-off contention last month.

And he reportedly wanted Raillo to join the ranks at the City Ground – offering to boost his pay packet substantially in the process – but Raillo elected to stay in Spain.

He said of the potential to move to Forest: “It was a very good opportunity, but I stayed with a smile on my face and you can see it on the pitch. No-one can say I threw in the towel and didn’t give my all for the club.”

Forest have been experiencing injuries at the back – especially at centre-half – of late and Raillo would have helped ease that crisis.

However, it is tough for players to come in mid-season and adapt to a different style of play, country and culture all while charged with being a key part of a rampage up the league.

Raillo’s arrival would also have further complicated Joe Worrall’s future when he returns from Rangers at the end of the season; the last thing the youngster needs is further, more experienced defenders blocking his path to the team again.