Nottingham Forest may have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Brazilian ‘wonderkid‘ Marcos Leonardo, as Serie A side Roma have pulled out of the race to sign him.
Brazilian journalist Beicola Santista has confirmed that after a breakdown in talks, José Mourinho’s side will no longer be signing him.
Forest have been credited with an interest in the 20-year-old who is available for £13 million this summer.
Steve Cooper’s side are looking for another striker this window after Sam Surridge left the club for the MLS, with Taiwo Awoniyi currently carrying an ankle problem.
Who is Nottingham Forest target, Marcos Leonardo?
20-year-old Leonardo is a product of the Santos academy which has produced the likes of Neymar and Pele.
MORE FOREST STORIES
The striker made his first-team debut for the Brazilian club three years ago, aged 17, and has since played 111 times scoring 36 goals in all competitions.
Leonardo has scored 14 times in all competitions this season, making him Santos’ top goalscorer this campaign. His current deal expires in 2026, with Manchester United and Aston Villa previously interested in signing the talented striker.
Leonardo would be a completely different option from what the Reds have upfront. He’s fearless and loves to play on the shoulder and get in behind the opposition’s defence. The thought of Morgan Gibbs-White playing outside of the foot through balls to Leonardo is simply stunning.