The football transfer window is always an exciting time for clubs, players, and fans alike, as it’s an opportunity to reshape teams and bolster their squads for the seasons ahead. For Nottingham Forest, 2025 is poised to be a pivotal year. As the club seeks to establish itself firmly in the Premier League after its long-awaited return, all eyes are on the club’s next moves in the market. With manager Steve Cooper at the helm, Nottingham Forest is gearing up to strengthen its squad, targeting key positions that will help push the team to new heights.
In this article, we dive into the hot transfer list for Nottingham Forest in 2025, looking at potential signings, key targets, and the club’s transfer strategy to bring success to the City Ground.
1. A Need for Goals: Striker Targets
Nottingham Forest has struggled at times to convert their chances into goals, a problem that was particularly noticeable during the 2024-2025 season. With only a few dependable attacking options, the club will be eager to strengthen its front line in 2025.
1.1. Jonathan David (Lille)
One of the most exciting prospects linked with Nottingham Forest is Jonathan David, the Canadian international striker currently plying his trade at French Ligue 1 side Lille. David’s goal-scoring prowess has seen him become one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards, and his experience in top-tier European leagues could be invaluable to Forest’s attack. The club has reportedly been monitoring the player for months, and with Lille’s current financial situation, they may be willing to let David leave at a competitive price. His ability to play both as a central striker and a secondary forward makes him a versatile option for Forest.
1.2. Ivan Toney (Brentford)
Another player who has been linked with Forest is Ivan Toney, the English striker who has been in scintillating form for Brentford. Known for his strength, poise, and clinical finishing, Toney would add a new dimension to Forest’s attack. His experience in the Premier League is also a major selling point, as it would allow him to adapt quickly to Forest’s style of play. The club’s potential move for Toney could be a bold statement of intent, signaling their desire to challenge for mid-table or higher finishes in the Premier League.
2. Defensive Reinforcements: A Solid Backline
While Forest has made some significant strides in improving their defense, there’s no doubt that they will need additional quality to be competitive against the best teams in the league. The club has identified a few key areas in the defense that need addressing in order to mount a serious challenge for European spots.
2.1. Levi Colwill (Chelsea)
One of the standout young defenders in the Premier League right now is Chelsea’s Levi Colwill. The 21-year-old centre-back has shown his potential on loan at Brighton and has quickly gained attention for his composure, excellent ball distribution, and ability to read the game. A move for Colwill would not only strengthen Forest’s defense but would also add an exciting young talent to the squad. While Chelsea may be reluctant to let him go permanently, a loan move with an option to buy could be a sensible solution for Forest.
2.2. Kim Min-Jae (Bayern Munich)
Another name that has been circulating in the transfer rumors is South Korean international Kim Min-Jae, who made the switch to Bayern Munich after an impressive season at Napoli. Despite his current status as one of the top defenders in Europe, there’s a chance that Bayern might consider loaning him out for more first-team experience. Kim would bring leadership, aerial dominance, and immense defensive stability to Nottingham Forest’s backline.
3. Midfield Marvels: Boosting Creativity and Control
While Forest’s midfield has shown promise, the club needs to add more creativity and control to the engine room. Key departures or injuries could leave them vulnerable, so it’s clear that bolstering the midfield will be a priority.
3.1. Moisés Caicedo (Chelsea)
Moisés Caicedo, the highly sought-after Ecuadorian midfielder, has been a revelation in the Premier League since his move to Chelsea. Known for his ability to break up opposition attacks, as well as his passing range, Caicedo would bring a different dynamic to Forest’s midfield. If Chelsea is open to loaning him out, Forest would be wise to secure his services, as he could be the perfect partner for more attack-minded players in midfield.
3.2. Gabriel Veiga (Celta Vigo)
Forest has also been linked with Gabriel Veiga, a dynamic and technical midfielder from Spanish side Celta Vigo. Veiga’s ability to control the tempo, coupled with his eye for a decisive pass, would make him a fantastic addition to Forest’s midfield. His creative flair and knack for scoring goals from midfield could provide Forest with the attacking threat they’ve been missing. With a release clause reportedly set at a reasonable fee, the club might be able to make a move before other top clubs enter the race.
4. Versatile Wingers: Adding Width and Pace
To break down Premier League defenses, speed and width are essential attributes. While Forest already boasts a few exciting wingers, adding more pace and flair to the flanks would elevate the team’s attacking options significantly.
4.1. Moses Simon (Nantes)
Moses Simon, the Nigerian winger currently playing for FC Nantes, has been a key player in Ligue 1 for several seasons. Known for his blistering pace and dribbling skills, Simon could provide Forest with the kind of direct attacking threat they’ve been craving. If Forest manages to secure Simon’s signature, they would have a player capable of tormenting full-backs and creating goal-scoring opportunities for the forwards.
4.2. Antony (Manchester United)
Another name that has surfaced in the rumors is Antony, the Brazilian winger currently at Manchester United. Despite some inconsistency, Antony possesses raw talent that could be nurtured under the right manager. If Forest could bring him on loan or secure a permanent deal, Antony’s pace and skill would give Forest an added dimension to their attack. His ability to stretch the opposition’s defense and create space for others could prove to be invaluable.
5. Young Prospects: Future Investments
While 2025 is a year for immediate reinforcement, Nottingham Forest is also likely to focus on building for the future, ensuring that their squad has long-term depth and success.
5.1. Vitor Roque (Athletico Paranaense)
One of the brightest young talents in Brazil, Vitor Roque, has been attracting interest from clubs around Europe. The 18-year-old forward has a sharp eye for goal and has already proven himself in the Brazilian top-flight. While a move for Roque would be a more long-term investment, Forest could look to secure his services ahead of the competition, developing him into one of the Premier League’s next big stars.
5.2. Endrick (Palmeiras)
Another promising young talent linked with Forest is 17-year-old Brazilian forward Endrick. Regarded as one of the brightest prospects in world football, Endrick has drawn attention from top European clubs, but Forest’s proactive scouting team might be able to convince him to move to the Premier League sooner rather than later. If Forest can pull this off, they would secure a player with immense potential, who could eventually become a talisman for the club in years to come.
6. The Strategy Behind the Moves
Nottingham Forest’s transfer strategy for 2025 will likely focus on a combination of solid experienced signings and emerging talents, blending youth with experience to create a well-rounded squad. With Steve Cooper’s vision and tactical approach, the club aims to build a team capable of maintaining Premier League status while pushing for higher league finishes.
Forest has demonstrated their commitment to improving each season since their return to the top flight, and the upcoming transfer window offers the chance to take the next step. With the right acquisitions, the club could challenge for a European spot, further cementing their place as a growing force in English football.
Conclusion
Nottingham Forest’s transfer activity in 2025 promises to be thrilling, with the club looking to make key additions to improve their squad in critical areas. From adding a clinical striker to reinforcing their defense and bringing in creative midfielders, Forest’s ambitions for next season are clear. With astute moves in the market and a focus on building for both the present and future, Forest fans have plenty to be excited about as their club looks to bring the heat and climb the Premier League ranks.
Amos Kefas