Nottingham Forest are reportedly still interested in teenage defender Taylan Bulut as the transfer deadline approaches.
The Reds were first linked with the Schalke youngster earlier this month, with reports suggesting they had “come knocking” for him. And, with the February 3 January window closing, it appears they have been given the green light to ramp up their interest.
According to German newspaper Bild, Forest have their eye on Bulut as they target reinforcements for head coach Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad. Premier League rivals Bournemouth are also said to have him in their sights.
Bulut, valued at under €2 million (£1.6 million), might be snatched up for a discount price as Schalke are thought to need to raise revenue through player sales in order to reduce their €162 million (£136 million) deficit. According to Bild, “all doors are open” for Bulut, the club’s “defensive jewel”.
The teenager is primarily a right-back, but can also play centre-back. He is under contract until 2026, and his team believes that supervising a renewal will be difficult due to speculation over his future.
Bulut, who has represented Germany at the junior level, moved through Schalke’s academy before breaking into the main team last season. He has stepped up his game this season and has established himself as a starter.
Ola Aina has established himself as the Reds’ right-back this season, having switched from the left. Neco Williams is also capable of playing on either flank.
Last summer, Forest signed 18-year-old right-back Eric da Silva Moreira from St Pauli. He is seen as a future star, but has only appeared in four first-team games.
The Reds know there is a lot at stake in overseeing the correct business when the transfer window closes in the coming days. Nuno’s squad does not require much work, but the club will want to ensure he has enough resources at his disposal as he pursues European football.
Forest is looking to add a striker to their roster. Nuno has emphasized the necessity of bringing in the appropriate personalities as well as quality players, as a sense of unity in the dressing room has played a significant role in the team’s success this season.
