Nottingham Forest reportedly want to turn Gary Gardner's loan spell with the club into a permanent switch.

The Aston Villa midfielder moved to the City Ground in January on a deal that runs until the end of the season.

Gardner has impressed since joining Forest and scored his second goal for the club with a 30-yard strike in Saturday's 3-0 victory at Reading.

Forest manager Dougie Freedman is said to have been delighted with Gardner's performances since he took charge, and he wants the 22-year-old to be part of his squad on a permanent basis, according to the Daily Mail.

However, the report adds that Villa manager Tim Sherwood is keen to keep hold of Gardner next season.

Gardner has made nine appearances for Forest.