The Nottingham Forest striker search has taken many twists and turns in January, and the latest speculation looks to continue that pattern.
Forest were expected to revive their interest in Santiago Gimenez as Nuno Espirito Santo increased his quest for more credible competition for Chris Wood during the January transfer window.
However, given the long list of forwards connected with a move to the club, Gimenez appeared to have slipped the Forest manager’s mind.
Forest were interested in Yoane Wissa, a particularly ambitious possibility from Evangelos Marinakis, and FC Dallas’ Petar Musa, a striker akin to Wood.
Forest’s ambitions for a new forward appeared to be contingent on the sale of Taiwo Awoniyi. West Ham were interested in Awoniyi, but it now appears that Forest wish to maintain him as a player who Espirito Santo trusts.
However, an offer for Awoniyi is possible, therefore Marinakis will not want to be caught off guard, making the latest name linked with the City Ground extremely intriguing.
Nottingham Forest enter the race for Francesco Pio Esposito.
With Wood at 33 years old, youth may be the greatest choice for Forest, making their rumored interest in Inter Milan academy graduate Francesco Pio Esposito quite promising.
According to On the Minute: ‘Nottingham Forest have joined Manchester United and Leicester City in the race to capture Inter Milan wonderkid Francesco Pio Esposito.”
Given that the choice on Awoniyi appears to be finalized for the time being, a January transfer for a striker is doubtful, but the source proceeded to hint that Esposito is more of a long-term strategy.
According to the article, Esposito, who is under contract with Inter Milan until 2027, is anticipated to remain in Italy during the January 2025 transfer window. However, a summer move could be in the works.”
This might be a win-win situation for all parties because it allows the Forest owner more time to sell Awoniyi or bring in a third striker if the club wants to qualify for European play.
If Esposito’s stats from this season in Italy are any indication, he would undoubtedly add a significant danger to the Forest squad.
Francesco Pio Esposito’s spectacular increase in numbers
Esposito has spent the last two seasons on loan at Serie B club Spezia, where he has polished his skills as a striker.
At six feet two, Esposito is developing a very comparable build to Wood, as evidenced by his effectiveness in aerial duels this season. He also consistently hits the target with his shots, which will serve him well in the Premier League.
Esposito already outperforms the Kiwi international in terms of creating opportunities for his teammates, with 1.31 chances per game versus 0.38 for Wood.
Esposito, who is only 19, might benefit greatly from learning his trade beside a player with Wood’s experience, while also presenting the Forest coaching staff with unique traits up front.
