Head coach Sabri Lamouchi says club record signing Joao Carvalho remains an “important” part of his plans, amid speculation about the Nottingham Forest ace.
The Portuguese midfielder has been linked with a move to Turkey ahead of the January transfer window, with Trabzonspor reportedly keen.
Carvalho missed the first few weeks of the season after picking up an ankle injury in the friendly with Alfreton Town in June.
He made his comeback in the Carabao Cup thumping of Derby County in August - coming off the bench to score a goal - and has racked up a total of 14 appearances under Lamouchi.
The 22-year-old was an unused substitute in Friday’s 2-2 draw at Millwall, but Lamouchi says he is well aware of the talent the former Benfica man possesses.
“I have a squad and Joao is very important in the squad,” he said, when asked about Carvalho’s place in his plans, amid the transfer rumours.
“I know about his quality, and I trust him to be ready when I call him.
“At the beginning for Joao, it was difficult with his ankle injury. Without the pre-season, it was difficult.
“We found a good line-up and it was difficult for him to find the rhythm - with a different manager, different philosophy and a different way to work.
“But I know about his quality.
“He is a quality player and we need him. We need him.
“For sure, he will help us.
“He just has to keep going."
