
Bradford City have been interested in luring the forward to Valley Parade as they until the end of the January transfer window to bring in players.
Gardner, 19, has caught the eye playing for Nottingham Forest’s Under-21’s so far this season. The high-flying Premier League side have a big decision on what to do with him for the second-half of this campaign amid attention from Football League clubs.
In this latest update regarding his situation by journalist Nixon on Patreon, the Bantams have considered him recently along with Walsall. However, Lincoln City are hoping to ‘close’ a deal to land him ahead of the League Two pair.
Graham Alexander’s side are currently sat 4th in the table as they eye promotion to League One.
Bradford City may have identified Gardner as someone to boost their attacking ranks.
Andy Cook is out injured as they look to keep their momentum going.
Nixon has recently reported on his Patreon that Burton Albion, Morecambe and Harrogate Town are all also eyeing the player.
In addition, Football Insider claimed in early December that Notts County and Doncaster Rovers were admirers.
Gardner has been on the books at Nottingham Forest for his whole career to date.
He has risen up through the academy ranks at The City Ground and has been a regular for the Reds at various different youth levels.
The prospect has played once for the first-team so far and initially broke into their Under-18’s before making the step up into the development squad.

Gardner has made 43 appearances for the latter and has chipped in with five goals and three assists.
In December 2023, he signed a contract extension. Chris McGuane, Nottingham Forest’s Head of Academy, stated: “Joe is a respected young man and a talented player who deserves the opportunity to extend his time with us.” In the upcoming years, we all want to continue our journey with Joe.
Bradford City may have to look elsewhere for reinforcements if Gardner ends up at Lincoln City.
The Bantams are back in action this weekend with an away trip to AFC Wimbledon. They won 1-0 at home to Morecambe last time out.