Nottingham Forest, Everton and Coventry are vying to sign the division’s Player of the Year

Nottingham Forest are battling Everton and Coventry City to sign the division’s Player of the Year, according to talkSPORT.

Nottingham Forest host Chelsea after enjoying an unbeaten run

Forest will go into Monday night’s clash with Chelsea full of confidence after putting together their strongest run of the season.

Since mid-March, results have grown significantly, with Forest showing more control in games and a sharper edge in both boxes. It was a clear shift from previous opposition, giving them a boost at a crucial stage of the campaign.

Activities during this spell are built on organization and resilience.

Forest has looked hard to break down, and is also finding ways to win tough games rather than letting them slide. That improved form has lifted the club’s spirits and eased the pressure, but also raised expectations heading into a tough test against Chelsea.

The upcoming game will be a completely different challenge.

Chelsea have had their ups and downs this season, most of them falling recently, but they still possess quality across the pitch.

For Forest, the aim will be to extend their good run and show that they can compete against top-level opposition in the same way they have shown in recent weeks.

However, away from the pitch, attention is already turning towards the summer window, and one name firmly on the radar is Hayden Hackney.

Forest vs Everton vs Coventry City for Hayden Hackney

According to talkSPORT, Forest are close to signing the Middlesbrough midfielder, but they are not alone.

Everton and Coventry City are said to be monitoring the situation, preparing for a three-way battle for one of the best players in the Championship.

Hackney’s reputation has soared this season after being named player of the year, recognition for his consistent influence in midfield.

At just 23 years of age, he has combined strength, composure and leadership, becoming a key figure for Boro during their promotion campaign.

His numbers underscore that impact.

Hackney has contributed six goals and eight assists in a total of 40 appearances from midfield this season while also calling the game, making him one of the most complete players in the division.

That ability to get around everything is a big reason why Premier League clubs are now getting around.

Of course, the interest is palpable.

Midfield has been an area where depth and consistency have been tested at times, and adding a player with Hackney’s profile would strengthen that department significantly.

He offers a mix of technical quality and work level, which fits the type of clubs players often look for when trying to build a balanced squad.

However, competition can make things difficult.

Everton are also expected to be active in the market, while Coventry – recently promoted – could be looking to make a statement by targeting players who have excelled in the Championship.

That creates a situation where Forest will need to move decisively if they want to secure the deal.

There is also a question about Middlesbrough’s position.

.Their promotional effect can play an important role in whether Hackney is available and at what price. Promotion to the Premier League for Boro would reduce the chances of a sale, while failure to go up would increase interest and drive negotiations.

For now, it’s still an emerging story, but it highlights how Forest is planning ahead.

Their improved form has given them a platform, and the next step will be to build on it by recruiting smartly.

As they prepare to face Chelsea, the focus will be on continuing their strong run.

Yet behind the scenes, the foundations are being laid, and Hackney is one of the names to watch as Forest look to strengthen for the future.