Unless Atletico Madrid make a huge U-turn, Nottingham Forest could have a golden chance to sign Renan Lodi this summer. The Reds hope to sign the defender on a permanent basis after a magnificent loan spell.
According to Mundo Deportivo, Los Rojiblancos have no desire to keep hold of Lodi beyond this summer. Diego Simeone has been linked with a plethora of left-backs and clearly, he’s keen to add one to his ranks.
Lodi signed for Atletico in 2019. He helped the La Liga outfit reach the semi-final of the Champions League, whilst he’s also been crowned a title-winner during his time at Wanda Metropolitano.
The 25-year-old cut an emotional figure on the City Ground turf after Saturday’s win over Arsenal. He helped the Reds to a 1-0 win that preserved their Premier League status and afterwards, he broke down into tears.
It’s been a good season on the pitch for Lodi, however, off the pitch, it’s been tricky. The defender has become a dad for the first time and living in a different country to his family has proved tricky.
Lodi posted an emotional message on Instagram after Saturday’s game. Some supporters might have read it as a goodbye but it seems as though Forest are certainly keen for Lodi to make a return.
Forest have golden chance to sign Lodi
This would be a great signing, although it’s not a straightforward deal to complete. An option to buy Lodi for £25 million has expired and Forest hope to negotiate a better price for the Brazilian.
It seems pretty clear that the club would love to keep him, however. Now, with Atletico not wanting him to remain there, Forest have a wonderful chance to get a deal for the defender over the line.
Lodi made 31 appearances for the Reds during 2022/23. He started slowly to life in the Premier League but as the season progressed he became better and proved a brilliant signing for Forest.
Now, with Premier League football secured for next season, the Reds have a great chance to act. Lodi would help Forest gain some continuity at the back and signing him would be a very wise thing to do.