Nottingham Forest tried to sign Willian on a free transfer during the summer transfer window. Just two months into the new season, it would seem that the Reds enjoyed a lucky escape.
Forest wanted the player to sign terms at the City Ground as they looked for new players. The 35-year-old had even had a look around the training ground and the deal was quite far down the line.
Still, Forest missed out on the player with everything in place except the player’s signature. Now, it looks as though the Reds are not going to rue the Brazilian’s decision.
Forest missed out on Willian and now he’s struggling
The experienced winger might have proved himself in the Premier League. However, his form of last season looks like nothing more than a purple patch that now looks way behind him.
During 2022/23, he was in fine form for the Cottagers. He scored five goals and claimed six assists during the campaign and even bagged a wonderful goal against Forest.
This season has proved a bit of a struggle though for Willian. He scored his first goal in eight outings at the weekend and it would appear that he’s gone off the ball a little bit this season.
Forest enjoyed success after transfer setback
Ironically, Willian choosing to stay with Fulham meant they were less interested in Callum Hudson-Odoi. Ultimately, the 22-year-old moved to Forest and he looks really sharp so far.
Many Forest supporters raised eyebrows over this deal when it was being talked about. Although Frank Lampard called him ‘immense’ when he was at Chelsea, the signing would have smacked of short-termism.
Forest have now assembled an exceptionally talented squad. Furthermore, they’ve signed a number of players – including Hudson-Odoi – who could be solid investments in the future.
Willian is a good player. However, his form this season hasn’t been great and Forest enjoyed a lucky escape over that potential transfer deal this summer.
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