Nottingham Forest is intensifying its efforts to secure a £30 million deal for Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah, with negotiations ongoing between the twao Premier League clubs. While an agreement has yet to be finalized, sources indicate that the 25-year-old forward is edging closer to leaving the Emirates Stadium. This potential transfer marks a significant moment in Nketiah’s career, as he seeks a new challenge away from the club where he has spent nearly his entire professional journey.
Nketiah has been with Arsenal since his youth, apart from a brief loan spell at Leeds United during the 2019-20 season. Despite making 168 appearances for the Gunners and scoring 38 goals, the striker has struggled to secure a regular starting position in the Premier League, with only 38 top-flight starts to his name. His limited role was evident in Arsenal’s recent 2-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers, where Nketiah remained an unused substitute. As Forest pushes forward in their negotiations, the club is also considering other striking options, including Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez, but Nketiah appears to be their primary target.
Forest Eyes Nketiah Amid Broader Transfer Strategy
Nottingham Forest’s pursuit of Eddie Nketiah is part of a broader transfer strategy to strengthen their attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season. The club, led by manager Nuno Espirito Santo, is keen to bolster its squad with proven talent, and Nketiah’s experience in the English top flight makes him an attractive prospect. The potential signing of Nketiah aligns with Forest’s ambitions to establish themselves as a formidable force in the Premier League, following their promotion last season.
In addition to Nketiah, Nottingham Forest is reportedly close to securing a loan deal for Aston Villa’s left-back Alex Moreno. The 31-year-old defender has fallen down the pecking order at Villa Park, behind new signing Ian Maatsen and Lucas Digne, and is expected to move to the City Ground in search of regular first-team Nottingham Forest’s proactive approach in the transfer market reflects their determination to build a competitive squad capable of withstanding the rigors of the Premier League.
Potential Outgoings as Nottingham Forest Look to Balance Squad
While Nottingham Forest is actively pursuing new signings, the club is also in discussions about potential outgoings to balance the squad. Championship side Burnley has expressed interest in signing Nottingham Forest defender Joe Worrall. Talks between the two clubs are ongoing, and a deal could see Worrall leave the City Ground before the transfer window closes. The 26-year-old has been a key player for Nottingham Forest in recent years, but the club may be willing to part ways as they restructure their squad for the Premier League campaign.
Meanwhile, Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo is expected to provide an update on the fitness of midfielder Danilo later this week. Danilo has been consulting specialists regarding an undisclosed issue, and his condition will be closely monitored as the club prepares for the challenges ahead. As Nottingham Forest navigates both incoming and outgoing transfers, their activity in the market underscores the club’s commitment to solidifying their place in the Premier League.
Crystal Palace and Other Clubs Monitoring Nketiah’s Situation
While Nottingham Forest appears to be leading the race for Eddie Nketiah, they are not the only club interested in the young striker. Crystal Palace remains keen on bringing Nketiah to Selhurst Park, as they seek to bolster their attacking options. Palace has been monitoring Nketiah for some time, and with the player looking for more playing time, a move to Palace could also be on the cards if the Nottingham Forest deal falls through.
Additionally, Bournemouth had shown interest in Nketiah earlier in the transfer window, but their focus shifted after signing Brazilian striker Evanilson. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest has not limited their search to Nketiah alone; they are also exploring the possibility of signing Santiago Gimenez from Feyenoord. The competition for Nketiah’s signature underscores his value as a young, talented striker capable of making a significant impact in the Premier League.
As the transfer window edges closer to its deadline, the next few days will be crucial in determining Nketiah’s future. Whether he ends up at Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, or stays at Arsenal, the outcome will have significant implications for all the clubs involved.
