Nottingham Forest accelerate move to sign Norwich star
Nottingham Forest Intensify Pursuit of Norwich Star Borja Sainz Amidst European Competition
Nottingham Forest are preparing to make a formal move for Norwich City forward Borja Sainz as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of a busy 2025–26 season. The Spanish winger has attracted serious interest from a host of European clubs, including Athletic Bilbao and FC Porto, but Forest are confident they can outbid their rivals with superior financial terms and the allure of Premier League and European football.
According to Mick Brown, the former Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers chief scout, who remains deeply connected in football circles, Sainz is poised to leave Carrow Road during the summer transfer window. Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Brown emphasized that the 24-year-old is expected to seek a new challenge after a standout season in the Championship.
Forest manager Nuno Espírito Santo is actively seeking attacking reinforcements, particularly in wide areas, as the club prepares for its Europa Conference League campaign. With Anthony Elanga’s future at the City Ground uncertain, Forest are prioritizing the recruitment of a dynamic winger who can contribute goals and creativity from wide positions.
Borja Sainz has emerged as one of the top targets for Forest. The Spaniard enjoyed a prolific 2024–25 season, finishing joint-second in the Championship’s Golden Boot race with an impressive tally of 18 goals. With his contract set to expire in June 2026, Norwich are reportedly open to cashing in this summer to avoid the risk of losing him for a reduced fee next year.
Forest have been monitoring Sainz closely and are believed to be impressed not only by his goal-scoring record but also his versatility and tactical intelligence. Brown noted that Forest’s recruitment team has done extensive scouting on the player and sees him as a good fit both on and off the pitch.
“Forest have had a strong recruitment record recently,” Brown said. “They’ve created a cohesive environment at the club, and any player brought in is expected to buy into that team-first mentality. Sainz fits the bill perfectly—he’s hard-working, scores goals, and would offer a new dimension to Nuno’s squad.”
Brown also mentioned that Forest are looking to reduce their over-reliance on striker Chris Wood by bringing in additional goal threats. With Championship talents offering better value than many overseas targets, Sainz represents a smart acquisition from a competitive standpoint.
“He’s not just technically sound,” Brown added. “He has the mentality to adapt quickly. Forest are in a strong position because they can offer him the Premier League platform and European exposure—something that might tip the scales in their favor despite competition from clubs like Porto and Bilbao.”
Whether Forest can finalize a deal remains to be seen, but the groundwork has been laid, and the club is ready to pounce should the opportunity arise.
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Forest Also Eyeing Liverpool’s Kostas Tsimikas to Bolster Defence
In addition to attacking reinforcements, Nottingham Forest are also exploring defensive upgrades, particularly at left-back. Football Insider has revealed that Forest are considering a move for Liverpool’s Kostas Tsimikas, with the Greek international emerging as a top option in their summer shortlist.
Throughout last season, Neco Williams was deployed out of position at left-back, while Ola Aina covered the right flank. However, Forest now want a natural, experienced left-sided defender as they seek more balance in their backline.
Brown previously revealed that Leeds United are also showing interest in Tsimikas, setting up a potential battle between the two clubs for his signature. The former Olympiacos man, who has found first-team opportunities limited at Anfield, is reportedly open to a move that guarantees regular playing time.
As Forest look to strengthen multiple areas of the squad, including both wings and full-back positions, fans can expect a busy and potentially transformative transfer window at the City Ground. With European football back on the agenda, the club appears determined to build a squad capable of competing both domestically and abroad.