Nottingham Forest is reportedly nearing a transfer deal for Botafogo striker Igor Jesus, with the club offering €20 million (£17m) for the 24-year-old forward. According to reports, the two clubs have reached an understanding regarding the fee, but bureaucratic details are still being negotiated. Arsenal and Fulham have also expressed interest in Jesus, but Nottingham Forest seems to be the frontrunner in the race.
Jesus’s agent, Jefferson Batista, has confirmed that the player is set to join Nottingham Forest, citing business reasons for the move. “Igor loves Botafogo and his wish is to stay, but our decision is to sell to Nottingham Forest,” Batista said. “The club also wants him to stay, but we decided on the transfer. It’s business, and Igor’s stay doesn’t pay the bills.” Jesus is expected to remain at Botafogo until the end of the Club World Cup before traveling to England to join Nottingham Forest.
This potential signing is part of Nottingham Forest’s efforts to strengthen their squad for the upcoming European campaign. The club has been active in the transfer market, with manager Nuno Espírito Santo seeking to bolster his team’s attacking options. With Chris Wood’s age and injury concerns, Jesus’s youth and consistency could make him an attractive addition to the team.
The transfer window is currently open, and Nottingham Forest is looking to finalize the deal before it closes on June 10. The window will then reopen on June 16 and remain open until September 1. If the deal is completed, Jesus will be a key player for Nottingham Forest in the upcoming season, providing competition for Chris Wood and other strikers in the squad.
Nottingham Forest’s strategy of making quick signings in the transfer window has proven successful in the past. Last summer, the club made several signings that allowed the players to settle in before the season started. A repeat of this strategy could be beneficial for the team, especially with the added challenge of competing in Europe next season.
The addition of Jesus would be a significant boost to Nottingham Forest’s attacking lineup. His pace, skill, and goal-scoring ability would provide manager Nuno Espírito Santo with more options and flexibility in his team selection. With the team’s European campaign ahead, Jesus’s arrival could be a crucial factor in Nottingham Forest’s success.
