Nottingham Forest enter 2025 as the surprise package of the Premier League season, sitting second in the table and harboring genuine hopes of qualifying for the Champions League.
It’s a remarkable turnaround for a club that, less than two years ago, was widely criticized for its scattergun approach to transfers. The transformation has been spearheaded by shrewd recruitment and the managerial acumen of Nuno Espirito Santo.
From Chaos to Clarity in Recruitment
Forest’s progress in the transfer market has been nothing short of revolutionary. After a chaotic initial season in the top flight that saw 32 players brought in, the club now operates with precision. Signings like Callum Hudson-Odoi and Anthony Elanga, picked up for a combined £18 million, and Chris Wood, acquired for £15 million, have been instrumental. Meanwhile, the defensive duo of Murillo and Nikola Milenkovic has fortified the backline, making Forest one of the toughest teams to break down.
This newfound success in the market has allowed fans to move on from earlier missteps, as names like Serge Aurier, Jesse Lingard, and Emmanuel Dennis fade into distant memory. Today, the club is focused on maintaining its trajectory and solidifying a spot among Europe’s elite.
What Do Forest Need?
With Champions League qualification within reach, Nottingham Forest must bolster their squad to sustain their push. The top priority is securing reliable cover for Chris Wood, who has been prolific but needs support to handle the rigors of the season. Taiwo Awoniyi, while a capable striker, has struggled with injuries, leaving a gap in attacking depth.
Another area for improvement is goalkeeping depth. Matz Sels has been outstanding between the posts, quietly establishing himself as one of the league’s top performers. However, a proven deputy is needed to ensure consistency in case of injury or fatigue.
Can Forest Afford to Spend?
Forest’s financial position is stable but not limitless. While the club isn’t at immediate risk of breaching profit and sustainability rules, it must tread carefully. Any significant spending in January will likely require outgoing transfers to balance the books.
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Who Are Forest Targeting?
Under Nuno Espirito Santo, Nottingham Forest’s transfer strategy has shifted toward meticulous planning and strategic acquisitions. The Brazilian market has become a focal point, with Fluminense’s Kaua Elias emerging as a potential target. The young forward is attracting attention from several European clubs, and Forest’s growing connections in Brazil could give them an edge.
This calculated approach marks a departure from the chaotic early days of Forest’s Premier League return, exemplified by last-minute deals for players like Andre Ayew and Divock Origi. Nuno is determined to preserve the squad harmony he has cultivated and will avoid moves that could disrupt the team dynamic.
Who Might Leave?
Outgoings could play a crucial role in Forest’s January plans. Taiwo Awoniyi is one name to watch, as the club may consider offers if a suitable replacement is secured. Defenders Andrew Omobamidele, Willy Boly, and Harry Toffolo are also candidates for departures, having seen limited playing time this season.
Despite this, Nuno is cautious about unsettling the squad. Even fringe players contribute to the team environment, and maintaining balance will be key to sustaining Forest’s success.
The Elephant in the Room: Chris Wood’s Contract
One of the most pressing issues at the City Ground is the future of Chris Wood. The striker’s contract expires this summer, and from January 1, he is free to negotiate with overseas clubs. Both Wood and the club are eager to extend his stay, but negotiations have hit a snag over the length of the deal. Forest initially offered a one-year extension, while Wood is seeking a two-year commitment.
Resolving this matter swiftly will be crucial, as Wood’s contributions have been vital to Forest’s remarkable season.
Morgan Gibbs-White: Another Contract Conundrum
Another player yet to commit to a new deal is Morgan Gibbs-White. While it’s unlikely Forest will part with any key players in January, the club may use this window to lay the groundwork for future negotiations. Gibbs-White remains a central figure in Nuno’s plans, and securing his long-term future will be a priority.
What’s Next for Forest?
As January unfolds, Nottingham Forest’s challenge will be to strike a balance between reinforcing their squad and maintaining financial prudence. The club’s transformation from transfer chaos to calculated strategy has been remarkable, and Nuno Espirito Santo’s leadership has been pivotal.
With Champions League football tantalizingly close, Forest fans have every reason to believe this season could mark the beginning of a new era. The next few weeks will be critical in determining whether the club can capitalize on its current momentum and cement its place among Europe’s elite.