Report: The three concerns about Nottingham Forest target Orel Mangala which have emerged during his time at Stuttgart

By Ben Evans

Stuttgart have some concerns about Nottingham Forest target Orel Mangala, according to The Athletic.

The Belgian international is close to becoming Nottingham Forest’s 12^th signing of the season after their promotion to the Premier League, for a reported fee of £12.75m.

However, the report from The Athletic suggests his current club Stuttgart have some criticisms of his attacking capabilities.

Mangala’s decision-making has also been questioned and his ability to read the game needs improvement.

Both of these attributes are important for a central midfielder, and The Athletic suggests Mangala is the key player Stuttgart are least upset about losing.

Stuttgart have Mangala concerns ahead of Forest move

Mangala would be the third central midfielder to join Nottingham Forest this summer, alongside the ‘very special’ Lewis O’Brien and youngster Brandon Aguilera.

It’s a position Forest needed to strengthen ahead of their first Premier League campaign since 1998/99.

James Garner has returned to Manchester United after a successful loan spell, and fan favourite Ryan Yates has missed much of pre-season due to an injury, while Jack Colback has been deployed mainly as a wing-back under Steve Cooper.

Despite Mangala’s attacking struggles – he’s only scored four senior goals in his entire career – the 24-year-old has some positive attributes as well.

Mangala’s main strength is his versatility, as he can play as a holding midfielder, part of a two-man central midfield, on the left of a midfield three or as a No 10.

His energy in midfield allows whoever he partners to control the game, while Mangala is the main ball carrier in the middle of the park.

And Nottingham Forest’s business might not be done yet, with another signing linked with a move to The City Ground.