Nottingham Forest continue to bolster their options ahead of the Premier League season; here is a round-up of the club’s latest transfer news, gossip, and rumours.
Nottingham Forest will be looking to strengthen their team in order to remain in the Premier League for a third season in a row.
Nuno Espirito Santo’s side is well into pre-season training, with games against Chesterfield, Sunderland, Millwall, and Elche already completed, with a return to the City Ground slated for Friday evening against Spanish club Villarreal. The Reds will then travel to Olympiacos, which is also owned by Evangelos Marinakis, on August 8 before facing AFC Bournemouth in their Premier League opening on August 17.
Before then, fans can expect to see multiple additions and departures from the club as Nuno works to solidify his first XI and squad ahead of a crucial season. Forest have been less active than in past seasons, bringing in only six players this time around, with Elliot Anderson being the standout, having joined from Newcastle United for about £35 million.
Nottinghamshire Live provides a round-up of the latest Reds transfer news, rumors, and gossip.
Jota Silva
The Portuguese formally arrived in Vitoria yesterday. According to writer Fabrizio Romano, Silva had a verbal deal with Forest for a fixed sum of €7 million plus €3 add-ons if he plays 15 games and another €3 if he gets ten goals. Strengthening wide areas has been a top focus for Nuno this transfer window, and the arrival of the 25-year-old will add to his options. Jota signed a four-year contract at the City Ground and has been compared to Jack Grealish for his ball-playing confidence, as well as his similar hairstyle and low socks. The player himself revealed to the Guardian: “I see a little of myself in Diogo Jota’s style. “He is an excellent player.”
Ramon Sosa
Forest may face competition in their pursuit of Paraguay International Ramon Sosa. The Reds have been linked with a £12 million deal for Tallares’ winger, as they want to enhance their wide/attacking options. Reports were “in the right direction,” but Everton is claimed to be interested in the 24-year-old’s abilities, according to TEAMtalk. The player is “desperate” for a move to the Premier League and has apparently been on Everton’s radar since last January.
Lamine Sillah.
As reported by Nottinghamshire Live earlier this week, a young Gambian is presently on trial at Forest, hoping to land his first professional contract after scoring 14 goals in the Gambian Football Federation League One. Sillah is presently playing for Steve Biko FC, and Forest may face competition from Austrian side Grazer AK, who are said to be tracking the player’s progress. Journalist Fabrizio Romano reported: “Gambian U20 star attacker Lamin Sillah is now training with Nottingham Forest. Leicester City are also keeping an eye on him, and he’s clearly one to watch as more Premier League clubs show interest. Sillah is handled by Cherno Samba and Sascha Empacher.” It’s unclear whether a compensation charge will be involved.
Wesley
Nottingham Forest are reportedly prepared to make an offer for Corinthians winger Wesley. The Reds already had a bid rejected, but will continue to pursue the youngster. According to Nottinghamshire Live, Saudi Arabian side Al Nassr appeared to be interested in signing the player for £21 million, but the deal fell through, allowing Forest to move in. However, the Sosa saga may have an impact on the agreement, as Forest is unlikely to sign both players.