Latest Nottingham Forest news as Nuno Espirito Santo tries to bolster the Reds team in the summer transfer window.
One of Nottingham Forest’s goals this summer is to finish the transfer window with a squad capable of competing in the Premier League.
They have until 11 p.m. on August 30 to conclude their business, with a few ins and outs planned before then. Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo prefers to work with a tight-knit squad that is well-balanced.
If the Reds want to finish higher in the standings, they must have depth. It is critical to have a variety of solutions for covering injuries and absences.
So far, two new faces have put pen to paper. Marko Stamenic, a midfielder from Red Star Belgrade, has joined Olympiacos on loan for next season, while Eric da Silva Moreira, a dynamic youth, has signed from St. Pauli.
More signings are likely, including goalkeeper Carlos Miguel from Corinthians. There is already the foundation of a strong group in place, but increasing funding in critical areas may make a significant difference.
Of course, Nuno could wind up with a selection headache. Having a great XI is crucial, but so is having a solid bench. With that in mind, let’s look at what a perfect substitutes list for the Reds could look like next season.
Nuno may need to decide on the starting goalkeeper and backup options. Matz Sels established himself as the No. 1 in the second half of last season, but Miguel will undoubtedly be focused on game time.
Centre-backs
Forest must strengthen this section, regardless of whether they lose the in-demand Murillo. They will undoubtedly want to ensure Nuno has the option of playing with three at the back if he so desires.
Getting Willy Boly signed to new terms was a critical move. However, it remains unclear how many games the 33-year-old will play next season. Whether he’s on the bench or in the starting lineup, the Ivory Coast international remains an important player.
Andrew Omobamidele is on the opposite end of the experience scale. The 22-year-old performed admirably whenever called upon last term and still has his finest years ahead of him. He will need to continue to accumulate minutes, but securing a spot in the XI may be difficult.
Full-backs
As with central defense, the Reds will want to evaluate their full-back alternatives this summer. Ola Aina and Neco Williams are both versatile players who can play on both flanks, which is important when numbers are tight.
Moreira can play right defender, right wingback, and winger. The 18-year-old is regarded as a promising potential, but he may have to wait for opportunities and may start on the bench.
Omar Richards’ future is uncertain, with some suggesting he could return to Olympiacos, where he was on loan last season. Harry Toffolo has generally performed well, but it would not be surprising if another left-back is recruited.
Given their form last term, Aina and Williams may start on the left and right, respectively. Others would initially watch from the sidelines.
Nuno already has various options in the midfield. However, don’t rule out reinforcements. Strength in depth may be especially essential in the centre of the pitch, with the ability to bring on players who can make an impact from the bench being a valuable asset.
Will Ibrahim Sangare be able to find his stride this time? The club record signing had to settle for a spot as a replacement near the end of last season, but he hopes to show what he is capable of as a member of the starting lineup this season.
Nuno also has Ryan Yates, Danilo, and Nicolas Dominguez to call on. Whoever gets a starting berth will provide the head coach with adequate choices to use as needed.
Striker
Forest may benefit from more wide players and a backup for Morgan Gibbs-White. If they can find someone who can fill a variety of positions, that would be wonderful.
Last season, loanees Gio Reyna and Divock Origi failed to live up to expectations, while teenage attacker Rodrigo Ribeiro had little playing time. Getting the recruitment right this summer will be critical.
It will be intriguing to see whether Nuno believes Brandon Aguilera has a role to play. He has talent, and a huge decision will have to be made about whether another loan transfer is ideal for his development. If the Costa Rican remains with Nuno’s side, he is unlikely to be a starter, but he could provide something unique as a substitute.
Striker
Another forward would be beneficial in expanding Nuno’s attacking options. Assuming Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi stay put, the Portuguese will have valuable choices.
If both Wood and Awoniyi can stay fit, the contest for the starting spot will be exciting. Free agent striker Che Adams has been on the Reds’ radar, but they will face competition for his services. If Forest is able to sign him, he might provide solid backup as a substitute alongside Awoniyi or Wood.
Dream bench
Sarah Clapson, Forest reporter
Miguel, Omobamidele, Toffolo, Yates, Sangare, Wood, Adams, Moreira, & Aguilera.
Brian Dick, Content Editor
Miguel, Boly, Aina, Moreira, Sangare, Yates, Aguilera, Adams, and Wood
