Nottingham Forest is preparing for an exciting January transfer window, with head coach Nuno Espirito Santo eager to build on his team’s impressive first-half performance this season.
The Premier League side, currently in a European qualification spot, has expressed interest in Juventus midfielder Nicolo Fagioli, but stiff competition could complicate the move.
Reports from Gazzetta dello Sport confirm that Juventus is ready to part ways with Fagioli in January, as the Italian international has seen limited opportunities under manager Thiago Motta.
Despite a promising start under Andrea Pirlo, Fagioli has only started five Serie A matches this season.
Nottingham Forest is among the clubs monitoring Fagioli’s situation. The 22-year-old could bring a combination of creativity and grit to Forest’s midfield, complementing players like Ryan Yates and Elliot Anderson.
However, Napoli has emerged as the frontrunner in the race for Fagioli’s signature. Managed by Antonio Conte, Napoli is strongly positioned in the Serie A title race, offering the midfielder an appealing opportunity.
The reported fee of €20–25 million (£16.5 million) is not a concern for Forest, but convincing Fagioli to choose the Premier League over a top Italian club might prove challenging.
If Napoli succeeds in signing Fagioli, Nottingham Forest could pivot to other midfield targets, such as James McAtee or Johan Bakayoko, who have also been linked to the club.
Forest’s management, led by Evangelos Marinakis, will likely aim to add quality depth to the squad to maintain their push for European football.
Forest concludes 2024 with a Premier League match against Everton, where Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad will aim to finish the year on a high. Meanwhile, the club’s January dealings will be critical in determining their trajectory for the remainder of the season.
