James McClean could be part of a swap deal which would see the 29-year-old leave Stoke and join Nottingham Forest.
The Mirror reports that the two clubs are in talks regarding an arrangement which would see midfielder Ben Osborn join Stoke in exchange for the Ireland international.
The term 'swap deal' undoubtedly adds an air of doubt regarding the transaction - they rarely happen.
In terms of predictable signings for Martin O'Neill at Nottingham Forest, James McClean would rank highly.
It would also seem to make sense for both parties. McClean, who only joined Stoke during the summer from West Brom, is yet to start a game under new manager Nathan Jones. Though, he has made appearances off the bench in all four.
Signed by Gary Rowett, McClean had been a first-team regular in the opening half of the season. He's started 17 games in the Championship and made eight appearances of the bench. Rowett was sacked by Stoke earlier this month.
McClean was a particular favourite of O'Neill during his five years with Ireland. A move to Forest, where Roy Keane is now assistant manager, would seem to offer a better guarantee of first-team football. That is a factor McClean has spoken about in the past as being the motivation at this point in his career.
Picture credit: Sportsfile
