Nottingham Forest rejoiced as Derby County missed out on the Championship play-offs on Saturday, and a former Pride Park youth star could soon be heading to the City Ground.
In fairness, it’s been that long since Forest played Derby these days that the rivalry has dwindled a bit, but the Rams’ chances of a positive season now hinge on Forest not winning the Europa League or getting relegated.
Whichever league Forest find themselves in, a big summer of recruitment will take place once again, with the Reds needing to make sure they’re not in this same situation next season.
Now, it appears as though Forest are going to go in search of another player to bolster the squad depth, with an ex-Derby County gem firmly on the radar.
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Nottingham Forest eye Archie Brown
According to A Spor, Forest have made contact with Fenerbahce over the signing of Archie Brown as he seeks a return to England.
The player is valued at £16 million, with Forest trying to open the bidding at £14 million, with talks seemingly ongoing between the two clubs.
Brown came through the academy ranks with Derby before leaving to sign for Swiss outfit Lausanne-Sport in 2021.
After two years learning his trade in men’s football, he was picked up by Gent before joining Fenerbahce, where he’s got a taste of European action.
Brown featured against Forest in the Europa League last 32 match earlier this season, and now, it might not be too long before he’s turning out for the Reds.
Brown typically plays as a left-back, and in 2025/26, he’s scored four goals and registered seven assists.
Forest have struggled for competition in the full-back areas, and if a deal could be struck for Brown, it could prove ideal for the squad in terms of options available to the head coach.
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