As the Premier League season approaches its critical juncture, Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo remains fully focused on matters on the pitch. However, the club’s hierarchy is well aware that a pivotal summer transfer window is fast approaching—one that could shape the immediate future of the Reds, both domestically and in Europe.
Thursday night’s 2-0 defeat at the hands of Brentford was a sobering reminder that Forest’s aspirations of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League remain a work in progress. Currently sitting sixth in the Premier League standings, Forest know they need to finish the campaign strongly to keep their European dream alive. Yet, regardless of whether they secure a top-four finish or fall short, significant squad changes are expected over the coming months.
The rumour mill is already spinning at full speed, with a flurry of players being linked both to and from the City Ground. NottinghamshireLive takes a closer look at some of the most prominent names being touted in connection with Forest as the summer window nears.
Douglas Luiz on Forest’s Radar Amid Juventus Exit Rumours
One of the standout names on Forest’s transfer wishlist appears to be Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz. The Brazilian international, who joined the Italian giants from Aston Villa last summer in a deal worth over £40 million, is reportedly available for transfer again after a frustrating debut campaign in Serie A, hampered by injuries and inconsistent form.
Reports from Italy suggest that Nottingham Forest have emerged as strong contenders for Luiz’s signature, reigniting interest they first showed in the player back in January. Italian outlets claim that Juventus are willing to accept offers in the region of £45 million for the 26-year-old, and Forest could be well-positioned to secure his services.
However, competition is fierce. Premier League rivals Manchester United have also expressed interest, with Forbes reporting that Luiz is being considered as a potential long-term replacement for Casemiro, whose future at Old Trafford is in doubt. With United’s financial muscle and Champions League pedigree, Forest may need to act swiftly and decisively if they want to win the race.
Despite the hurdles, Foot Italia has tipped Forest as “the best-positioned club” to land the midfielder, adding intrigue to what could be one of the summer’s more compelling transfer sagas.
Juventus Set to Keep Hold of Gatti Despite Premier League Interest
While Forest may have a shot at landing Luiz, they are likely to miss out on another of their Serie A targets. Centre-back Federico Gatti, who had reportedly drawn interest from Forest, West Ham United, and Everton, is expected to commit his future to Juventus.
According to Italian publication TuttoSport, the 26-year-old defender is on the verge of signing a new long-term contract that will keep him at the Turin club until at least 2030, with an option to extend for another year. This comes despite several Premier League clubs reportedly preparing offers in the region of €25 million (£21 million), along with significant wage increases.
Gatti’s decision appears to be a sentimental one. TuttoSport suggests that the Italy international has chosen to stay with the club that helped elevate his career, deciding that “money isn’t everything” and expressing a desire to continue growing with Juventus.
Hudson-Odoi Drawing Attention from Serie A Giants
Another player generating headlines is Forest winger Callum Hudson-Odoi. The former Chelsea prodigy has impressed under Nuno’s leadership, but a recent hamstring injury sustained against Brentford has cast doubt over his availability for the remainder of the season.
That hasn’t stopped interest from building. Italian heavyweights AC Milan have reportedly joined the race to sign Hudson-Odoi, adding to earlier interest from Roma and Napoli. Two unnamed Premier League clubs are also said to be monitoring the situation, as the 23-year-old enters the final year of his contract.
AS Roma Live reports that there could be a “three-way battle” among the Serie A clubs to secure his signature this summer. However, Nottingham Forest are keen to retain their in-form winger and are expected to offer him a new contract in an attempt to fend off potential suitors.
Whether Hudson-Odoi remains at the City Ground or seeks a new challenge abroad may depend on the outcome of these negotiations and the club’s final league position.
Forest Keeping Tabs on Brentford Stars as Mbeumo Interest Emerges
Forest’s interest in strengthening their attack is no secret, and one of the latest names to emerge is Brentford forward Bryan Mbeumo. The 25-year-old has enjoyed another strong season with the Bees and is attracting plenty of attention, with Forest now believed to be among the clubs monitoring his situation.
Brentford manager Thomas Frank, speaking ahead of their midweek clash with Forest, acknowledged that while he would love to keep Mbeumo, the club’s status as a “selling club” means a departure could be on the cards—if the price is right.
“I want my best players to stay forever,” Frank told Sky Sports. “Bryan is very happy at Brentford and playing fantastic football. But what happens in the future? I don’t know. We are a selling club, and if the right offer comes—one that’s expensive—I’m sure the club will consider it.”
Mbeumo is reportedly valued at around £50 million, reflecting his importance to Brentford and the challenge any suitor will face in prying him away. Forest, however, are no strangers to bold moves, having already had a bid rejected in January for Brentford’s Yoane Wissa. They may yet return with renewed offers for either or both attackers this summer.
Looking Ahead
As the season races toward its conclusion, Nottingham Forest find themselves at a crucial crossroads. A potential Champions League berth remains within reach, but the transfer market waits for no one. Whether preparing for European nights or building for a stronger domestic campaign, Nuno Espirito Santo and the club’s recruitment team appear ready to be major players when the transfer window opens.
Big decisions lie ahead—on the pitch and in the boardroom—and the summer promises to be an eventful one at the City Ground.
