Latest Nottingham Forest transfer verdict, as numerous Reds players face uncertain futures in the remainder of the transfer window.
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo was relieved that Nottingham Forest had not lost any of their best players before the end of June.
The Reds paid much for Odysseas Vlachodimos, Moussa Niakhate, and Orel Mangala. Nuno has stated that Forest “don’t have to worry” about complying with Profitability and Sustainability Rules.
Last season, they were fined four points for violating the PSR. Preventing a repeat of such catastrophe was a top aim for the forthcoming campaign.
June 30 was a significant date in this regard, as it marked the end of the next financial assessment period. Forest got through it without having to consider selling any of their valued assets for low-cost fees in order to balance the books.
It implies they have the upper hand if any bids are submitted before the summer window shuts on August 30. The club will be entitled to explore bids for important players on their own terms.
However, they still need to concentrate on moving peripheral players on. Nuno revealed following Saturday’s friendly victory over Chesterfield that he will make deliberate decisions about their futures, particularly those who have returned from loan periods.
“We have some (signings) and the squad is not closed yet,” Nuno remarked over the weekend. “We still have things to decide. We are dealing with players who have been on loan; we need to take a hard look at them and make the best decisions for them.
“More importantly, we were able to keep our players. I’m very glad with that – that we as a club are maintaining our most important players, because I believe that after last season’s work, this is what will help us develop this season.”
The transfer window’s second half promises to be exciting. NottinghamshireLive looks at some of the players with questionable futures.
Matt Turner: Carlos Miguel has been brought in to battle with Matz Sels for the top slot, pushing Turner down the rankings. It remains to be seen whether Forest will sign another goalkeeper to make it three senior custodians on the roster, but Turner is likely to desire playing time nonetheless. He is reportedly interested in MLS and is valued at 7 million euros (£5.9 million) on transfermarkt.
Joe Worrall: Despite starting the game on Saturday, the defender did not wear the armband. Ryan Yates received that honor, as he did during Worrall’s absence last term. The club captain has long been linked with a move in the summer. He would be available for approximately £4 million. Sheffield United remains enthusiastic.
Jonathan Panzo: Despite never getting an opportunity at the City Ground, the 23-year-old centre-back remains relatively youthful. Standard Liege decided not to keep him after he spent the second half of last season on loan, but he is still set to leave this summer. With only a year remaining on his Reds contract, he is valued at 1.2 million euros (£1 million) on transfermarkt.
Alex Mighten, 22, is once again at a crossroads in his career. A series of loan spells haven’t worked out, and forcing his way into Nuno’s plans appears difficult, especially given that he only has a year left on his deal. Transfermarkt estimated his worth at £500,000.
Lewis O’Brien: The midfielder has already been linked to many teams this summer. Following last season’s loan term, Middlesbrough chose not to make his move permanent. Sheffield United, Preston North End, Ipswich Town, and Luton Town have all been linked with an interest. According to reports, some possible suitors seek a financing transaction, while Forest prefers to sell. He is valued at £4 million.