Nottingham Forest’s latest plans as they aim for more summer signings
Nuno Espirito Santo is making the most of his first pre-season as Nottingham Forest’s manager. He has used this time on the training pitch and in friendly matches to instill his ideas into the squad. The Reds have shown clear signs of their approach for the 2024/25 campaign. Integrating summer signings has been a priority for Nuno, who knows the importance of unity and team spirit. Early business in the transfer window was important to him.
Carlos Miguel, Elliot Anderson, Eric da Silva Moreira, and Nikola Milenkovic will have gotten to know their teammates well by the time they face Bournemouth on August 17. Nuno hopes to have a few more new faces by then.
Forest has made some good moves so far. Here’s where they might still strengthen before the transfer window closes.
Winger
Nuno has been clear about the need to bolster the wing. Currently, there is little competition or cover for Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga. As Nuno mentioned, they are the “only natural wingers” in the squad, with Josh Bowler not considered an option.
Versatility is valued by Nuno, but the team lacks depth on the wings. A bid is reportedly in for Palmeiras’ Brazilian youngster Riquelme Fillipi, but the 17-year-old might not move until January. Paraguay international Ramon Sosa is another potential solution.
Striker
Forest could use more attacking threat in general, not just wingers. Bringing in a forward would give Nuno extra firepower. Chris Wood and Taiwo Awoniyi are key players, but given their injury histories, additional cover could be wise. A forward with different qualities to Wood and Awoniyi would be beneficial. Che Adams was on the radar but has joined Torino, while Kelechi Iheanacho has been linked with a move.
Centre-back
Securing Nikola Milenkovic was seen as crucial for the Reds. He is expected to help solve Forest’s set-piece issues. With Joe Worrall likely to move on, Nuno has Milenkovic, Murillo, Willy Boly, and Andrew Omobamidele as his centre-backs. If Nuno deploys a three-man defense, another option might be needed. Austria international Marco Friedl has downplayed a move, despite reports of Forest’s interest.
Goalkeeper?
This might depend on Matt Turner’s situation. Turner is now behind Miguel and Matz Sels in the pecking order and could seek game time elsewhere. There is interest from MLS. If Turner leaves, Nuno might consider bringing in another goalkeeper to maintain three senior keepers. Crystal Palace’s Sam Johnstone was on Forest’s radar in January and they might still be keeping tabs on him this summer.