
EPL Index
·22. Juli 2025
Nottingham Forest ‘Working on a Deal’ to Sign 24-year-old Serie A Forward – Report

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Yahoo sportsEPL Index
·22. Juli 2025
Nottingham Forest are shaping up for an ambitious summer, with The Guardian reporting that the club are in advanced discussions to sign Dan Ndoye from Bologna and are considering a move for Manchester City’s James McAtee. These potential deals suggest Forest are not merely seeking to survive in the Premier League but aiming to establish themselves as a serious mid-table force.
Ndoye, capped 22 times by Switzerland, has emerged as Forest’s top target to replace Anthony Elanga, who was sold to Newcastle for £55m. The 24-year-old winger impressed last season in Serie A, netting eight goals in 30 games and playing a key role in Bologna’s Champions League qualification.
According to The Guardian, Forest had initially set their sights on Johan Bakayoko, but after his switch to RB Leipzig, they turned their full attention to Ndoye. What makes Ndoye particularly appealing is his hunger to prove himself in the Premier League, despite Napoli’s interest. His journey, from struggling at Nice to rebuilding at Lausanne and Basel, before shining at Bologna, is a testament to resilience and maturity.
Photo: IMAGO
As one source put it, “Ndoye is keen on testing himself in the Premier League.” This ambition, coupled with his proven European pedigree, makes him an attractive addition for a Forest side looking to evolve.
James McAtee’s name has surfaced as another target, though a move appears more complicated. The Manchester City academy graduate, who played 27 times last season but failed to secure a regular starting spot under Pep Guardiola, has seen his valuation soar.
While earlier in the window McAtee was reportedly available for around £25m, City now want closer to the £42.5m Chelsea paid for Cole Palmer. Forest have enquired but are hesitant to meet such a figure. With West Ham, Eintracht Frankfurt and Borussia Dortmund also interested, and McAtee personally visiting Bundesliga clubs, competition will be fierce.
McAtee’s victory with England at the European Under-21 Championship only enhances his stock. Forest’s interest shows they are keen to invest in dynamic, young attacking talent, though pragmatism may ultimately prevail if City refuse to budge on price.
These pursuits underline a shift in Forest’s strategy. Rather than scattergun buys, they are focusing on targeted, ambitious signings who align with the manager’s tactical vision. Ndoye brings pace and European experience, while McAtee offers creative spark — if Forest can afford him.
Credit must go to The Guardian for breaking these developments, which highlight the growing reputation of Forest in the transfer market. Fans will be watching closely as these deals progress, eager to see their club take the next step.
From a Nottingham Forest supporter’s perspective, this report is nothing short of thrilling. Dan Ndoye’s potential arrival feels like a statement of intent. We have watched players like Elanga come and go, but Ndoye’s experience in Serie A and the Champions League suggests we are signing someone ready to deliver immediately. His eight goals last season are not just numbers, they show a player improving year after year.
As for James McAtee, even if the price is steep, it is exciting to think Forest are in the conversation for one of England’s brightest young talents. McAtee’s creativity, vision and technical skill could transform our midfield. While West Ham and European giants like Dortmund circle, just being in the mix shows how far Forest have come.
What excites fans most is that the club appear to be thinking smartly. No longer are we buying names just to fill the squad, we are targeting players with hunger and a point to prove. Whether or not both deals happen, Forest supporters should feel optimistic. The ambition is clear: we are here to stay in the Premier League, and we want to thrive.