Eddie Howe confirms Chris Wood medical at Nottingham Forest

Eddie Howe has confirmed Chris Wood is close to sealing a move from Newcastle and Nottingham Forest.

The Magpies told the New Zealander he is free to leave the club this month and Forest soon came forward as potential suitors as they eye more goals up front to keep them in the Premier League.

A medical was booked in ahead of the loan transfer and Howe has revealed Wood is now putting the finishing touches on his move away from St James' Park.

He said: "Chris is having a medical with Nottingham Forest as we speak so that’s the situation.

"He’s been a huge player for us. I have to say he’s been outstanding in every way. When we signed him we were in a very difficult league position. He played a huge part on the pitch to help transform the team.

"This season he has been excellent both on and off the pitch in terms of his leadership and positivity when he’s not played. I can’t underestimate the role he’s played.

"It was a difficult decision because you have to take into account the player and his wishes but also it’s a very good deal financially for the football club."

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Wood joined Newcastle from Burnley last January for £25m but has quickly been left behind by the club's rapid progression since then. Callum Wilson and Alexander Isak are their leading strikers under Howe, leaving Wood to make the majority of his appearances from the bench.

He is set to join a Forest side with renewed hope of beating the drop. Recent wins over Crystal Palace, Southampton and Leicester have lifted Steve Cooper's side up to 13th in the Premier League, five points above the relegation zone.