Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of Aston Villa midfielder Aaron Tshibola on loan until the end of the season.
The 22-year-old’s arrival is thought to be the first of what could be two or three signings by the Reds before the transfer window shuts on Tuesday.
Tshibola signed his first professional deal with Reading in March 2011 at the age of 16 and was a standout performer for the club’s under-21 side as they clinched the Premier League Cup.
Tshibola moved to Villa for the start of the 2016-2017 season and has made ten appearances for them this season, scoring a late equaliser against Newcastle United at Villa Park in September.
He is able to break up play in midfield but also possesses passing ability and a fierce shot.
Interim Reds manager Gary Brazil said: “He’s athletic, gets around the pitch, he’s played Championship football. He’ll offer competition for places in midfield – I’m pleased.
“Hopefully in the next 48 hours we’ll see more players arriving at the club. We’re trying very hard to make things happen.
“We want to be stronger at the end of January than the end of December.”
Tshibola will be in the squad for tomorrow night’s game against Rotherham.
Tshibola said: “I’m delighted to be here now. I want to play some football and continue my development. I had good discussions with the gaffer at Villa and decided Forest were the right club for me.
“I’m an all-round midfielder, I like a tackle and playing on the ball. I like to score goals and defend also.
“My ambitions are to string a couple of wins and get back nearer to the play-offs. The lads have great morale in the dressing room. I can’t see why we can’t fight for the play-offs.
“If I’m picked, I’m ready for tomorrow night.”
