Nottingham Forest plot last-minute £26m swoop for ‘key’ attacking star, but there’s a problem

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Nottingham Forest are putting the final touches to Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad ahead of transfer deadline day, with a £26m attacker now on the radar.

Forest signed Nicolo Savona to provide cover at right-back for Ola Aina, while Forest are closing in on Cuiabano to offer the same service on the left side.

Espírito Santo is also getting his wish for more competition in the goalkeeping department, too, with John Victor set to sign for Forest to potentially make it four additions from Botafogo this summer.

However, there remains a feeling that the Reds could do with one more attacking option from the right in particular, with reports now linking Forest with a move for a highly sought-after La Liga star.

Nottingham Forest chase Sevilla star Dodi Lukebakio

Dilane Bakwa has been a top target for Forest this summer, but with that deal yet to be concluded, it’s understandable that the Reds would look to consider other options.

One of these looks to be Sevilla and Belgium winger Dodi Lukebakio, with Football España revealing the details of Forest’s interest.

The report said: “Sources have exclusively revealed to Football España that both Benfica and Nottingham Forest appear ready to meet Sevilla’s €30m asking price.

[“…] Nottingham Forest are financially equipped to match Sevilla’s demands and sees Lukebakio as a key reinforcement to boost their attacking options.”

Lukebakio scored 11 goals for a Sevilla side that struggled last season and possesses Champions League experience, but the Reds aren’t the only club chasing his signature.

Nottingham Forest aren’t favourites in Dodi Lukebakio chase

Alongside Bakwa, Forest have taken a look at Lee Kang-In from PSG as another wide option, but that deal would cost significantly more than the £26m quoted for Lukebakio.

The Belgian looks like a solid option, then, but the report continued to suggest that Forest have work to do to secure his services ahead of other interested parties.

The report continued: “The Portuguese giants are leveraging their Champions League status to lure the player, and reports suggest Lukebakio is receptive to the move.

“[…] Furthermore, clubs like Stuttgart and Atlético Madrid have also expressed interest, although Benfica are said to be favourites at this stage.”

With deadline day soon upon us, it remains to be seen whether the Reds can convince Lukebakio on a move to the Premier League; otherwise, other targets will have to be prioritised.