Swans in talks with Forest over midfield star O'Brien

SWANSEA City's director of football Richard Montague insists the door hasn’t yet been closed on a possible return for Lewis O'Brien this summer.

- MATHEW DAVIES

The midfielder spent a hugely successful six-month loan spell with the Swans last season, starting all 16 games for the club after arriving in January and producing a string of eye-catching performances in the process.

The 26-year-old has one year left on his current contract at Nottingham Forest, and the prospect of him breaking into their first-team plans appear slim, despite his exploits for the Swans.

A host of Championship clubs have taken an interest, while Spanish giants Valencia are also understood to be admirers of the midfielder, but his next move remains shrouded in uncertainty.

O’Brien is understood to have enjoyed his time in south Wales, and has similarly enjoyed a good relationship with head coach Alan Sheehan.

Finances have already been mentioned as a key stumbling block were Swansea to show an interest in bringing him back, but Montague says the door is by no means closed on a possible reunion, adding that the club have already held discussions with his parent club.

“We have had good conversations with Forest,” he added.