Football
Chris Wood And Nottingham Forest Remain ‘Hopeful’ That New Contract Can Be Agreed
Ben Horlock is a sports news and features writer who holds a degree in sports journalism (BA Hons) from Southampton Solent University. Ben has been published across a wide variety of news outlets and websites including HITC, 90min, GiveMeSport, Betfair and Zoo Magazine. As well, Ben has worked in social media for four years in the sports gambling industry. For his sins, Ben is a QPR fan and is a keen follower of all the major European football leagues.
Get to know Ben Horlock betterPublished18 Dec 2024
A new and improved Chris Wood contract is on the table after the New Zealander’s blistering form for Nottingham Forest this season.
Wood has netted 10 Premier League goals in 16 appearances with Forest currently occupying fourth spot in the table on 28 points.
On Saturday, the Tricky Trees picked up their eighth win of the campaign after leaving it late to beat Aston Villa. Nikola Milenkovic and Anthony Elanga netted in a 2-1 win.
Manager Nuno Espirito Santo has worked wonders at the City Ground since taking charge in December 2023. The Portuguese gaffer picked up some memorable results to help the club avoid the drop last season.
In 2024/25, Espirito Santo has seen his side flourish in England’s elite. Now, star man Wood is reportedly locked in contract negotiations about extending his stay at the City Ground.
🇳🇿 Throwback to when Chris Wood scored a hat-trick against Newcastle last season…
His 2nd goal was absolutely outrageous. 🤯
📹 @NFFC pic.twitter.com/yrSTBHMr12
— Footy Accumulators (@FootyAccums) November 8, 2024
New Chris Wood Contract On The Table
With a new Chris Wood contract reportedly on the table, the only issue remains over the length of duration. Nottingham Forest have offered a one-year deal with Wood looking for two.
The 33-year-old’s current deal is up at the end of the season and he is able to speak to overseas clubs in the new year. Therefore, Forest will want to find a resolution sooner rather than later.
As it stands, Wood pockets £100,000-a-week at the City Ground. Unsurprisingly, that makes the striker one of the highest paid players at the club.
It’s unclear whether the Kiwi star is looking for a considerable financial rise at this stage. What he appears to be looking for is a longer-term commitment from the Tricky Trees.
Naturally, his age is a stumbling block but his goal return will surely justify giving Wood what he wants. Especially if he helps fire Espirito Santo’s side to a European berth come the end of the season.
In October, Wood became the first New Zealander and Forest star to be named Premier League Player of the Month after netting four goals in three outings.