After a successful loan spell, Nottingham Forest know they face a fight to re-sign Manchester United youngster James Garner for next season.
But fellow midfielder Ryan Yates admits it would make a big difference to the squad, if they do win that race.
Garner has made a great impression since joining the Reds in January, racking up 19 appearances and scoring three goals while being almost an ever-present for boss Chris Hughton.
The 20-year-old's eye-catching form hasn’t gone unnoticed, however, and he will no doubt have his pick of teams when it comes to deciding what happens after the summer.
Brighton and Hove Albion, Norwich City and Rangers are interested, according to his agent, while there is also the chance he could try to compete for a place at Old Trafford.
Forest will hope the development he has made at the City Ground and United’s deep respect for Hughton will count for something, though.
“He’s a quality player. Teams are going to want him, of course they are, if you’re performing well at his age,” said Yates.
“He’s a Manchester United player, so it wouldn’t be a surprise if other teams want him.
“It’s completely down to him - what’s best for his development.
“He’ll eventually want to play consistently in the Premier League one day.
“Of course we’d love to keep him. We want quality players in every position, especially if we’re fighting at the right end of the table next year - if he came back, that would only benefit us.”
Garner spent the first half of the campaign on loan at Watford before linking up with Hughton’s side.
He made his top-flight debut for his parent club two years ago and has also featured for them in the Europa League.
There is no doubt he has Premier League quality, but the experience of battling in the Championship will have added a different dimension to his development.
“Everyone knows he’s a top player. He’s got fantastic quality,” said Yates.
“From the moment he came in, you could see that quality he possesses.
“He’d say himself, he’ll have learnt a lot from some of these games.
“In the Brentford game, for example, he was fantastic - getting on the ball and being on the front foot. He had a lot more time on the ball, on a better pitch. He looked great.
“But this is the Championship and most games aren’t going to be like that - the Cardiffs, the Birminghams, the Rotherhams.
“Next season, if we’re winning those games consistently and adding more quality, we’re going to be right up there.”
