Nottingham Forest set to bid for Chelsea gem who was ‘brilliant’ at the City Ground last season
Nottingham Forest Begin Pre-Season Amid Transfer Planning and Midfield Opportunity
Nottingham Forest officially begin their preparations for the 2025/26 season today, as the squad returns for pre-season training at the Nigel Doughty Academy. While the players are back on the pitch, the club’s hierarchy remains busy behind the scenes, working diligently to bolster the squad ahead of a historic campaign that includes a return to European competition.
Over the weekend, Forest confirmed the signing of talented Brazilian forward Igor Jesus, marking an early move in what promises to be a busy summer transfer window. Reports also suggest that Jair Cunha, another exciting young talent from Botafogo, could soon follow Jesus to the City Ground. These additions signal the club’s intent to strengthen key areas with youthful, high-upside players.
At the same time, the situation surrounding Anthony Elanga remains a major storyline. The Swedish winger continues to be heavily linked with a move to Newcastle United. Should that transfer materialize, it’s expected to bring in a sizeable fee—potentially around £55 million—which could be reinvested into improving various areas of Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad.
With Nottingham Forest set to compete in the UEFA Conference League next season, squad depth and quality will be crucial. Nuno is determined not to endure the same squad limitations that troubled parts of last season. As such, multiple new signings are expected, and some may come from rather unexpected sources.
A New Midfield Target? Lesley Ugochukwu Emerges as a Viable Option
One name that could prove to be a shrewd addition to the Forest midfield is Chelsea youngster Lesley Ugochukwu. According to respected journalist Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea are no longer open to loaning the player out and are instead looking for permanent offers. With Financial Fair Play concerns looming, the Blues are under pressure to raise more than £60 million in player sales, or risk running afoul of UEFA regulations that could jeopardize their Champions League eligibility.
Valencia are reportedly among the clubs showing early interest in the 21-year-old French-Nigerian midfielder, but Premier League clubs are also monitoring his situation. Nottingham Forest should seriously consider throwing their hat into the ring.
Ugochukwu is a composed, technically gifted central midfielder with enormous potential. He spent last season on loan at Southampton, where he made 31 appearances and showed flashes of brilliance that would undoubtedly appeal to a side like Forest, who are building for both present stability and long-term progression.
Past Encounters: A Glimpse of What Ugochukwu Can Offer
Forest fans might remember Ugochukwu’s performance against their team back in January, when Southampton came to the City Ground while sitting at the bottom of the table. Although Forest stormed to a 3-0 lead by halftime, the Saints mounted a spirited second-half fightback. Ugochukwu assisted Jan Bednarek’s goal that started the resurgence, and Paul Onuachu later added a second to bring the game to a tense conclusion. Forest narrowly held on, thanks to a last-ditch goal-line clearance from Ola Aina, but Ugochukwu’s impact did not go unnoticed.
After the match, Paul Onuachu described the young Chelsea loanee as “amazing,” further highlighting the impression he made. According to Squawka data, Ugochukwu also boasts a higher pass completion rate than Forest’s Ryan Yates, which underscores his reliability and composure in possession—attributes that would benefit Nuno’s system.
A Strategic Fit for the Midfield
While Forest have been linked with several central midfielders this summer—including Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz and Colombian international Richard Rios—Ugochukwu stands out due to his age, Premier League experience, and technical profile. Though there is currently no formal indication that Forest are actively pursuing him, the move would align well with the club’s recent recruitment philosophy: young, high-potential players capable of developing into long-term assets.
If Forest were to make a move, Ugochukwu could potentially form a dynamic midfield trio alongside Ibrahim Sangaré and rising star Elliot Anderson, who is tipped for a breakout season. The trio would offer a blend of physicality, ball-winning ability, and forward-thinking creativity—traits vital for competing domestically and in Europe.
Conclusion
Nottingham Forest’s return to pre-season marks the start of a crucial summer. With one signing already completed and another potentially on the way, the club is laying the foundations for a strong and competitive 2025/26 campaign. As they navigate the transfer market, Forest should keep a close eye on opportunities like Lesley Ugochukwu—talented players who may be available due to unique circumstances at bigger clubs.
With European nights returning to the City Ground for the first time in over 30 years, now is the time for Forest to be bold, smart, and strategic. A signing like Ugochukwu could be exactly what they need to thrive on all fronts.