Jesse Lingard and Anthony Elanga react as Nottingham Forest star posts heartwarming exit message

Nottingham Forest have allowed a player to leave the club in the last few days and it would now appear that it’s signed, sealed and delivered.

Although there hasn’t been anything in the way of an official announcement, Moussa Niakhate has now taken action on Instagram.

The Reds defender has posted a heartfelt message to the football club and the supporters ahead of a move to Lyon.

Niakhate has been with Forest for two seasons but the club have decided to cash in to meet the latest PSR requirements and avoid a points deduction.

Following his post ahead of his departure being officially confirmed, Niakhate has received a number of messages from Forest stars.

Nottingham Forest star Moussa Niakhate confirms Lyon transfer

The Reds allowing Niakhate to leave has seen the club recoup around £26 million and that represents sound business.

Although the defender has been largely good since signing for the club, he’s had his fair share of problems on the injury front.

His transfer also allows Forest to keep hold of Murillo, Morgan Gibbs-White and Callum Hudson-Odoi, with those three now unlikely to leave unless huge offers are made.

Niakhate made a lengthy post on Instagram and it’s clear that he’s thoroughly enjoyed his time playing for the football club. He said:

Nottingham Forest stars past and present react to Moussa Niakhate departure

It seems quite obvious that the defender was a popular figure in the Forest dressing room.

After announcing his departure, he’s received a host of messages, with Jesse Lingard, saying: “My broo.”

Anthony Elanga is a player who can speak a number of languages and he posted a message in French to Niakhate, which translated to: “My family. Good luck.”

Gonzalo Montiel was on loan with Forest last season and he said: “I wish you the best my friend.”

There were wordless reactions posted by Neco Williams, Ryan Yates and even the son of Evangelos Marinakis, Miltiadis.

Callum Hudson-Odoi simply said: “Gonna miss you brother.”

Taiwo Awoniyi, Lewis O’Brien, Ola Aina and academy player Alex Mighten also sent messages to Niakhate on Instagram.

How do Forest replace Niakhate?

Well, if Murillo stays the left side of the defensive unit will be in safe hands – however, some competition will be required.

Left-footed centre-backs aren’t easy to find and ultimately Forest will have to dip into the transfer market.

Still, it’s easy to see why this deal has been made by Forest ahead of the last round of PSR requirements coming to a close.

Niakhate leaving means that Forest have been able to avoid selling a top player on the cheap and that can only bode well.

The 28-year-old has been a fine servant for the Reds and everyone at Forest will wish him well for the future at Lyon.