Nottingham Forest have prioritized consolidation in the January transfer window so far, but Nuno Espirito Santo will still be looking to add further talent to his side if possible.
While no new recruits arrived at the City Ground in January, Forest have agreed to a new contract with Murillo, which will be a huge comfort to Espirito Santo.
There is also hope that Chris Wood will sign a new Forest contract in the next weeks, demonstrating how much Evangelos Marinakis values keeping his European football-chasing Forest squad intact.
However, adding extra quality is always a possibility for any team, with Forest’s interest in Igor Jesus proving that a trade might be accomplished if the player adds new traits to Espirito Santo’s side.
Espirito Santo had also been looking at potential wide possibilities in attack, but a recent report has stated that Crystal Palace had beaten Forest to one of their preferred options.
Crystal Palace closes nearer on Romain Esse deal.
Forest were linked with Millwall’s Romain Esse ahead of the transfer window, after the 19-year-old impressed scouts during his breakthrough Championship season.
According to TEAMtalk, Palace has moved away from Forest in their pursuit of the talented English winger.
According to the source, Millwall star Romain Esse is highly sought after, and Crystal Palace are in direct talks to reach a deal.
“The winger, who can also play in the No 10 position, is eager to join Palace and hopes the clubs will strike an agreement soon. Palace have had one bid rejected, but they are working to match Millwall’s criteria and persuade them to sell.
While the Forest manager recognized Esse’s skill, the report went on to say that Palace’s proactive approach had allowed them stay ahead of any potential transfer competitors.
It wasn’t just the proactivity, though; Palace had one distinct advantage over Forest that would have made the sale far more difficult for Marinakis.
Crystal Palace’s major lead against Forest in the Romain Esse chase
Transfer negotiations are often complex, but the report stated that Palace’s friendship with Esse’s agency allowed them remain confident in beating Forest to the deal.
According to the article, his agency is no stranger to dealing with Palace, as they presently represent Marc Guehi, Maxence Lacroix, Jeffrey Schlupp, Louie Moulden, Dylan Reid, and Finley Marjoram, all of whom are under contract with the club.
“This is something that could help Palace secure a deal, as positive relationships between the club and agency have opened up the opportunity for them to land Esse.”
A deal for Esse was tough for the Forest owner to execute from the start, making Espirito Santo’s chances of adding a new wide man to his side in January appear unlikely.
Along with the alleged collapse of the Esse pursuit, Forest appear to be missing out on another winger as Ajax have prioritised Raul Moro, implying that Espirito Santo will have to make do with the quality he already has.
