Nottingham Forest have revealed that reported Town target Nathan Tyson has turned down the offer of a new contract at the City Ground. Previously it was understood that the 29-year-old, who is believed to interest the Blues, Derby County and Hull City amongst others, had not been offered new terms by his current club.
Forest chief executive Mark Arthur said: "Under normal circumstances we would not be discussing matters like this in public but as a club we feel there is a need to explain the situation.
"Over the last season the club has been in regular contact with Nathan’s agent, chartered accountant Andy Weekes, and we informed him that we would be making an offer, in line with Football League regulations, when we knew what division we would be playing in next season.
"In the fullness of time we did that but were subsequently told by Mr Weekes that he was no longer Nathan’s agent and that the player’s matters were being dealt with by his father.
"Mr Len Tyson is neither a FA-registered agent nor an FA-registered close relative, who can act for players on a non-charging basis.
"Despite this, Nathan’s father has informed us that Nathan has rejected our contract offer. We would like to thank Nathan for his five years’ service and wish him well for the future.”
Tyson senior sees the situation rather differently: "Unfortunately, Nathan is leaving Forest. He is very upset.
"He is perplexed at the way this has been done because he feels he has given the club loyal service for the past five years. The way this has been done shows a lack of respect.
"The club has not discussed this with him since his last contract was signed. All it needed was a phone call or meeting telling him he was no longer part of their plans and Nathan could have prepared his family for the pending move.
"We have a lot of options now but we have probably narrowed it down to four clubs and will be making a decision soon.
"Nathan has always given 100% for Forest. He never spat his dummy out after being asked to play out of position. Every fan knows left midfield is not his best position.
"Now he just wants to get away and get his career back on track. This is no snub to the marvellous Forest fans. They have supported him from day one and always gave him a warm reception."