Imps’ transfer action
Lincoln City FC has completed the loan signing of Joe Gardner from Nottingham Forest until the end of the season
The 19-year-old attacking midfielder (above) has made 12 appearances for Forest’s U21 side in Premier League 2 this season, scoring six times and setting up a further two goals. He has also made three appearances in the Vertu Trophy - netting in a win at Carlisle United.
Head coach Michael Skubala said: “We are really excited that Joe is joining us on loan for the rest of the season. Following Jack Moylan’s season ending injury, we have been looking for a player who can replicate his attacking attributes.
"Joe is a versatile forward-thinking player, who can play within our system as an attacking midfield player, and brings a unique skill set to our group. This is early in Joe’s development but he is a player of fantastic ability and potential, fearless in taking players on and has a goal threat.”
Director of football Jez George added: “We would like to thank Nottingham Forest for their help in us completing the loan for Joe. They gave us the opportunity to meet and present to Joe, his agent and their staff, so they could all make an informed decision. We have been open and honest in terms of expectation for playing time and Joe believes that we are the right club and the right environment for his first loan.
Leaving the LNER Stadium is Dylan Duffy, who has completed a permanent transfer to Chesterfield.
The winger (below) joined the Spireites on loan earlier this week to allow him to feature for them on Tuesday evening while discussions continued over the possibility of a full-time switch.
Director of football Jez George said: “This agreement makes sense for everyone. Chesterfield are really keen on Dylan and play in a way that really suits him. At 22 years old, Dylan also needs to play regularly and they will provide him with this opportunity.
“Finally, the financial structure of the deal makes sense for us in that we have agreed a significant guaranteed fee and a very significant sell-on. That is our model, so this is a win/win. We wish Dylan every success, we will monitor his progress and he will always be welcome at the Elite Performance Centre and LNER Stadium.”
Duffy moved to the Imps in 2022 from League of Ireland side UCD and has made more than 50 appearances for the club, scoring three times.
Picture: Vaughan Photography
