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BBC News
an hour ago
- Sport
- BBC News
Lightning have 'set the benchmark' - Wallace-Joseph
Loughborough Lightning's Sammy Wallace-Joseph believes the defending champions have "set the benchmark" for opposition sides this season. Lightning could become the first team to win three netball Super League titles in a row. They face London Pulse in the semi-final on Friday at Copper Box Arena in London (20:00 BST). The Leicestershire side have suffered two defeats in their past five games, including a defeat against local rivals Nottingham Forest who completed the double over the defending champions this season. "It's tough having teams gunning for you. They will play their best netball against you but credit to us because we have clearly set the benchmark," the goal-shooter told BBC Radio Leicester. Lightning are the only team to beat London Pulse at the Copper Box Arena this Wallace-Joseph believes Pulse are the team to beat this year. "It will be tough so I will be jumping for joy once we make the final and win it," she added."Pulse have definitely been the side to beat and we have shown we can do it."The London side earned themselves a home semi-final tie after finishing top of the regular season table, five points clear of Lightning who finished in second place.
BBC News
2 hours ago
- Sport
- BBC News
Gossip: Forest close in on Brazilian duo
Nottingham Forest are close to completing a £30m deal for Botafogo's Brazilian pair Igor Jesus, a 24-year-old striker, and defender Jair Cunha, 20. (Telegraph - subscription needed), externalWant more transfer stories? Read Friday's full gossip columnFollow the gossip column on BBC Sport
The National
5 hours ago
- Sport
- The National
Former UAE football star Igor Jesus leads Botafogo to shock win over PSG at Club World Cup
European champions Paris Saint-Germain suffered a shock 1-0 Club World Cup defeat against Brazilian side Botafogo on Thursday. A first-half goal from Brazilian international and former UAE Pro League star Igor Jesus proved the difference as the reigning champions of South America all but secured a place in the knockout phase at the Pasadena Rose Bowl. French champions PSG were one of the favourites for the expanded tournament, having capped a remarkable season with a 5-0 demolition of Inter Milan in the Uefa Champions League final last month. But their hopes of securing a victory which would have seen them become the first side to reach the last 16 were dashed by a resilient performance from the Rio de Janeiro club. 'A lot of people wondered, but we showed how strong Botafogo is,' goalscorer Jesus said after the win. 'It was a difficult game, and we had to defend well, and we did our job and scored a goal. 'We're really happy – we knew how important this game was. One team was the champion of the Champions League, the other team was the champion of South America,' added Jesus, who had been linked with a move to English Premier League side Nottingham Forest earlier this year before opting to stay with the Brazilians to play in the Club World Cup. 'I think I made the right choice to stay in Botafogo,' Jesus quipped. It was a moment to celebrate for UAE football as well. Up until recently, Jesus was at Shabab Al Ahli in Dubai, where he played for nearly four years and developed into a quality centre-forward and also helped clinch a UAE Pro League title. On Thursday, PSG dominated possession in front of almost 54,000 fans but Botafogo's defence stood tall to withstand waves of attacks from the French side in the first competitive meeting between the clubs. A turnover near midfield generated an opportunity for Jesus, whose deflected shot left PSG keeper Gianluigi Donnarumma flat-footed and only able to watch as the ball skipped into the net in the 36th minute. PSG continued to be the aggressors in the second half as Botafogo were content to protect their lead. PSG, who had scored 19 goals in their last five matches, had the ball in the net in the 79th minute but the goal was chalked off for offside and Botafogo held for the shock win. Setback for Al Ahly Palmeiras drew first blood in Club World Cup Group A with a 2-0 victory over Egyptian side Al Ahly in New Jersey. The match was suspended in the 63rd minute because of a weather warning, with players and fans at the MetLife Stadium instructed to 'take shelter' because of a nearby storm. Palmeiras were leading by two goals at the time, with a Wessam Abou Ali own goal sending the Brazilians ahead in the 49th minute before Flaco Lopez doubled their lead on the Egyptian club 10 minutes later. Victory took Palmeiras provisionally top on four points. It was the third match at the tournament affected by adverse weather at the tournament. 'I think in general the way this type of thing (weather delay) affects the game; it was a very low beginning. It wasn't easy to get back to the rhythm in the game,' Al Ahly coach Jose Riveiro said. 'Most of the team is coming from very long seasons, levels of energy aren't the best. These types of interruptions aren't going to help.'
New York Times
5 hours ago
- Sport
- New York Times
Rating Nottingham Forest's 102 permanent signings under Evangelos Marinakis
Since Evangelos Marinakis became majority owner of Nottingham Forest in May 2017, there have been more than 100 signings for the club at a combined cost of around £400million. The first arrival of the new era was Jason Cummings, a promising young striker from Scotland. The most recent — the 102nd permanent addition under the current regime — is Tyler Bindon, a New Zealand international. Advertisement Forest's recruitment in recent years has been outstanding, with players including Murillo, Nikola Milenkovic, Matz Sels and Elliot Anderson all proving impressive bits of business. So with the club hitting the century of permanent signings in the Marinakis era, we decided to take a look at the successes… and the failures — and, just for a bit of fun, to rate every one of them out of 10. Grab yourself a coffee and settle in. Signed: Hibernian (June 2017, £1million) Left: Shrewsbury (September 2019, undisclosed) Scored one goal, before being sent out on loan to Rangers, Peterborough and Luton. Now an Australia international playing in the Indian Super League. Impressive tattoos. 4 Signed: Rangers (July 2017, £500k) Left: Swansea (July 2018, undisclosed) Winger who briefly looked like an outstanding talent. Scored five goals for Forest in 26 Championship appearances — but was plagued by inconsistency. 4 Signed: Newcastle (July 2017, £2million) Left: Bolton (September 2019, free) It felt like a big fee for a 34-year-old, and it became a long-standing debate. A physical presence up front, Murphy scored 13 goals in 60 appearances. 5 Signed: Burnley (July 2017, £1million) Left: Wigan (January 2021, free) A full-back who helped Burnley to promotion to the Premier League, before being signed by Forest to try to achieve the same. Made 63 appearances, scoring once, before a serious knee injury he did well to bounce back from. 6 Signed: Olympiacos (July 2017, free) Left: Olympiacos (July 2018, free) Scored two stunning goals in his league debut, a 4-3 away win against Brentford. Greece international midfielder who had ability but seemed to struggle with the pace of the Championship. 5 Signed: Leeds (August 2017, £1million) Left: Lincoln (August 2020, free) Advertisement He brought leadership but never really broke into the side after Aitor Karanka's appointment as manager the following January. 5 Signed: Free agent, January 2018 Left: Tractor (August 2018, free) The Iran international midfielder made his debut as a 76th-minute substitute at one of his former clubs, Fulham. A knee injury ensured that was his only Forest appearance. Unlucky, but a flop nevertheless. 3 Signed: Huddersfield (January 2018, £2million) Left: Sydney FC (August 2022, free) Got Forest's player of the season award in 2018-19, when he also scored their goal of the season, a thunderous strike in a 5-5 draw at Aston Villa — a game in which he provided four assists. After Forest won promotion in May 2022, Lolley was sidelined, which was not a fitting end to the winger's City Ground career. 8 Love you Lolleh 🍭❤️ #NFFC @JLolley23 — Joe Worrall (@JoeWorrall5) January 28, 2020 Signed: Middlesbrough (January 2018, free) Left: Al Gharafa (August 2019, undisclosed) Famed for his long-range shots, which brought him a few spectacular goals during both spells at Forest (he was previously at the club for 18 months in 2012 and 2013). His final goal — fired into the corner from outside the box in a 3-1 win over Wigan — epitomised that. Wasn't quite as good this second time around. 5 Signed: Watford (February 2018, free) Left: Charlton (September 2020, free) Forest's manager at the time Sabri Lamouchi called him the 'brains' of his side. It took Watson a while to win around the Forest fans, but his passing ability eventually swayed opinion — and earned him the nickname 'The Ginger Pirlo'. Started all but one of the 46 league matches in the 2019-20 Championship. 7 Signed: Free agent, February 2018 Left: Werder Bremen (August 2018, €300,000) Advertisement Arrived with a big reputation, having played Champions League football with previous club Olympiacos and for Greece. Looked a decent shot-stopper but made only four appearances during his brief stay. 4 Signed: Free agent, February 2018 Left: Free agent, July 2018 Has there been a more unlucky player to have signed for Forest? The Spanish full-back had been a free agent for six months when he joined, after leaving Osasuna the previous summer. He broke his leg in a committed challenge with Barnsley's Dimitri Cavare in the April — on debut. The injury was so severe it led to his retirement the following year, aged 29. Not his fault, but… 3 Signed: Watford (July 2018, undisclosed) Left: Denizlispor (September 2020, free) A goalkeeper who was capable of brilliance but also of making the occasional error. After Forest made the previous season's six-month loan permanent, he played 44 Championship games in 2018-19, before being frozen out under Lamouchi. 5 Signed: Sporting CP (Loan January 2018, made permanent for £2million August 2018) Left: Hull (June 2022, free) Made 122 appearances, including 26 in the league during the promotion season. An old-fashioned, no-nonsense centre-half. Reliable. 6 Signed: Newcastle (loans in January 2018 and July 2018; August 2020, free) Left: QPR (July 2023, free) Scored one of the club's most remarkable goals in recent years when, from very wide on the left, he sent a curling volley inside the far post, in a 4-0 win over West Bromwich Albion in April 2022. His calming presence was a big factor in Forest's promotion that season and subsequent survival in the Premier League. With Watson too, it was an era when ginger midfielders thrived. 7 Signed: Hull (May 2018, free) Left: Retired, August 2021 Advertisement Dawson made only 28 Championship appearances across three seasons following his return to the club where he began his career before a 2005 move to Tottenham… but his influence was vast. Lamouchi — a man who was often modest with his praise — said he would keep him at Forest 'for life'. 8 Signed: Benfica (June 2018, £13.2million) Left: Olympiacos (January 2022, undisclosed) Forest wanted it to be a statement of intent when they smashed their transfer record to sign Carvalho. He scored four goals and provided eight assists during a promising debut season. But more than one manager saw him as being more style than substance. Had hair like Al Pacino. 4 Signed: QPR (June 2018, free) Left: Sheffield United (January 2020, £500,000) A no-nonsense performer. Made 59 appearances before getting an opportunity to play in the Premier League. 6 Signed: Dinamo Zagreb (June 2018, €3million) Left: Olympiacos (June 2019, undisclosed) Scored two Championship goals in one start and five substitute appearances, but knee and leg injuries effectively ended his only season at Forest. Disappointing. 4 Signed: Bournemouth (July 2018, £6million) Left: Al Ahli (August 2022, free) It took then-manager Karanka weeks of phone calls to get Grabban to sign for the club. He believed his instinctive finishing power could fire Forest to promotion. He was right, but it was under Steve Cooper that Grabban finally helped them into the top flight, scoring 12 Championship goals in that 2021-22 season. 8 Signed: Bristol City (August 2018, free) Left: Released, July 2020 A goalkeeper who scored on his Forest debut, in a 10-9 penalty shootout win against Bury in the Carabao Cup. Was generally kept out of the side by Pantilimon, though. Unlucky. 5 Advertisement Signed: Huddersfield (August 2018, £300,000) Left: Retired, July 2021 Played only 18 times for Forest before a succession of injuries ensured he was unable to play for two-and-a-half years. 4 Signed: Olympiacos (September 2018, free) Left: Lecce (January 2019 loan made permanent July 2019, €500,000) Tachtsidis was said to have been so upset about leaving Athens, he shed tears on the journey to Nottingham. The Greece midfielder's mood will not have changed; he never played a game for Forest. 1 Signed: West Brom (September 2018, free) Left: Nacional (January 2020, contract mutually terminated) The Argentine midfielder occasionally looked the part but was not involved at all at the start of the 2019-20 season and was allowed to leave in the winter window. 4 Signed: Free agent, November 2018 Left: Al Sailiya (July 2019, free) The Iran international who had left Olympiacos in summer 2018 scored two goals in three starts and nine substitute appearances. Did not shine. 4 Signed: Leicester (January 2019, undisclosed) Left: Aris (October 2020, free) Martin O'Neill's first signing. Fiercely committed: in 14 appearances, he collected seven yellow cards, two red — but also scored the vital goal in a 1-0 win over Derby. So fans will forgive him. 5 Signed: AIK (February 2019, free agent) Left: Contract terminated (October 2019) The Sweden international made 12 appearances under O'Neill, but was quickly moved on by Lamouchi, who did not rate him as highly. 4 Signed: Bolton (June 2019, free agent) Left: Middlesbrough (June 2021, free agent) A winger who was capable of unadulterated brilliance… and of sometimes having all the grace and balance of a newborn deer. Was a key figure in his first season with five goals and nine assists. 6 Advertisement Signed: Feirense (July 2019, undisclosed) Left: Olympiacos (October 2020, undisclosed) Many were disappointed to see Silva depart. Technically gifted, creative and comfortable on the ball. Forest did get Cafu from Olympiacos in return. 6 Signed: Benfica (July 2019, undisclosed) Left: Legia Warsaw (August 2021, free) The product of the Benfica academy established himself as first-choice left-back. A tidy player with energy and work rate. Made 52 league appearances. 6 Signed: Aston Villa (July 2019, free) Left: QPR (October 2020, free) Felt like a smart signing. But Adomah was swiftly loaned to Cardiff and released the following summer. Expected more. 4 Signed: Dinamo Moscow (August 2019, £600,000) Left: Lens (August 2021, free) In 2019-20 Forest had a win rate of 52 per cent with the midfielder in the side and 30 per cent without. The Mali international was a huge presence. But injuries limited his impact massively. If he could have stayed fit, he would have been brilliant. 7 Signed: Arsenal (August 2019, £2million) Left: Melbourne City (January 2022, loan) The full-back had amassed close to 100 Premier League appearances with Arsenal and West Ham and won an England cap. But he never got going at the City Ground. Baffling. 3 Signed: Caen (August 2019, €5million) Left: Lens (July 2022, €5million) At the time, Samba was by far the best goalkeeper to have played for Forest in years. A force of nature in the dressing room. A hero in the Championship play-off winning side, who will be remembered for his penalty shootout saves against Sheffield United in the semi-final. Sh*thouse. 8 Signed: Levante (August 2019, €1million) Left: Getafe (January 2020, undisclosed) The defender made 10 appearances in six months before Lamouchi approved his return to Spain. A future quiz question. 4 Advertisement Signed: Strasbourg (January 2020, undisclosed, but thought to be around €2million) Left: Auxerre (August 2022) Intelligent and interesting character, who speaks five languages. But an awful signing. He scored one goal — an own goal in the 4-1 defeat to Stoke City on the final day of the 2019-20 season, which ensured Forest missed out on the play-offs on goal difference. A haunting memory. 2 Signed: Brighton (January 2020, £500,000) Left: End of contract (June 2022) His debut, against Charlton, was so unimpressive that Lamouchi never used the defender again. He was restored to the squad by Chris Hughton, who had managed the defender at Brighton — where he was regarded as a reliable, steady performer. At Forest, he rarely showed those qualities. Mystifying. 2 Signed: Reading (August 2020, free) Left: FC Cincinnati (August 2021, free) The Manchester United academy arrived with some pedigree. But he had an injury-hit campaign making nine Championship starts and five sub appearances. Wasn't the answer to Forest's annual left-back problem. 3 Signed: Charlton (August 2020, free agent) Left: Released (July 2023) Lyle Taylor's reportedly free to leave Forest. The best penalty taker in the country? 👀 — Second Tier podcast (@secondtierpod) August 22, 2022 The striker, affectionately known as 'Boris' because of his love of politics and his dyed blond hair, was not a prolific scorer, netting seven times in 23 starts and 34 sub appearances in the league. But his late brace at Bristol City — which earned a 2-1 win in October 2021 — helped provide the first hint that Cooper's side might be capable of something special. His penalty-taking style still leaves your nerves shredded. 6 Signed: Malmo (August 2020, nominal fee) Left: Omonia Nicosia (August 2021, free) Advertisement Lamouchi believed Bachirou was somebody who could dictate the tempo in midfield. But his one Championship appearance was as a 58th-minute substitute in a 0-0 draw with Barnsley. Last seen plying his trade at Matlock Town. 2 Signed: Olympiacos (September 2020, undisclosed fee) Left: Rayo Vallecano (February 2021, undisclosed fee) The forward occasionally looked the part and was more of a No 10 than a 9. But he also made nine appearances without scoring. 3 Signed: PSG (September 2020, a fee of up to €5m) Left: Beerschot (August 2024, following release) Forest thought they were signing one of the brightest young talents in French football. But he left after loan spells with Guingamp and Almere City. Beerschot sounds like a fun place. 4 Signed: Genclerbirligi (September 2020, free) Left: End of contract (June 2021) Signed as a back-up goalkeeper to Samba and Jordan Smith. Did have injury problems. But was never likely to challenge Samba. Left without making an appearance. 3 Signed: Bournemouth (September 2020, £5million) Left: End of contract (June 2024) When Forest won promotion to the Premier League, it triggered a clause in Arter's contract extending his deal until 2024 and earning him a healthy pay rise. The last of his 14 Forest appearances was in January 2021. He was told he was surplus to requirements the following summer. But did not leave until three years later. Gold star for his agent. But from the club's point of view: 0 Signed: Aberdeen (September 2020, £3million, potentially rising to £6million) Left: Las Palmas (August 2024, end of contract) The defender started 45 Championship games as Forest won promotion. The Scottish international was a vital figure in ending the club's 23-year exile, even if he subsequently could not hold down his place in the Premier League. Did what he was signed to do. 8 Advertisement Signed: APOEL (September 2020, £500,000) Left: Como (July 2021, initially on loan) The Cyprus international started five Championship games after signing, but never featured for Forest again after being sent off against Luton Town in October 2020. On the naughty step, rather than the bench. 2 Signed: Brighton (February 2021, free) Left: Retired (May 2021) Murray added some experience to the front line. But it was not the swansong he would have wanted for his impressive career. Two goals in eight starts and eight sub appearances. Has since admitted he realised it was time to hang his boots up during a Forest training session. 5 Signed: Olympiacos (October 2020, initially on loan, permanent February 2021) Left: Rotherham (July 2023, free agent) The midfielder celebrated his only Forest goal in the Championship — in a 4-1 win at Swansea — like he had scored in a World Cup final. He will also be remembered for his joyous celebrations after the play-off final. Did get to make one Premier League appearance. Clearly loved every minute. 6 Signed: Club Brugge (July 2021, free) Left: Cardiff (February 2024, undisclosed) The USMNT goalkeeper was understudy to Samba, so found his opportunities limited. Made a brief cameo off the bench in the play-off final. Won promotion with Luton too. 5 Signed: Olympiacos (August 2021, free) Left: Basel (August 2023, free) The Tunisia international did not play a game for Forest, before being offloaded to Luzern on loan. Extra point for having a name like a Bond villain. 2 Signed: Olimpia (August 2021, £2million) Left: Real Salt Lake (August 2022, loan then permanent) Was handed three Championship starts and there was a hope that he would evolve into Forest's future No 10. He didn't. But the Paraguay international has established himself in the MLS. 4 Advertisement Signed: West Ham (August 2021, £200,000) Left: Dijon (August 2022, undisclosed) Made two starts and eight sub appearances. Hard to remember much about any of them. 3 Signed: Alaves (September 2021, free) Left: Contract terminated (January 2022) Came through the youth ranks at Milan and made more than 100 La Liga appearances with Alaves and Almeria. The central defender did not make a single Forest appearance. 2 Signed: Bournemouth (January 2022, free) Left: QPR (August 2023, undisclosed) The defender provided a calm head in the second half of the promotion season — even scoring from the spot in the play-off semi-final against Sheffield United. Provided the same qualities as Forest fended off relegation. Astute signing. 7 Signed: Toronto FC (January 2022, $1million) Left: Toronto FC (August 2024) His one Forest start came against Hull City, ahead of the Championship play-offs, when Cooper rested key players. Had pace and directness. But Forest had better options. 5 Signed: Stoke City (January 2022, £2.2million) Left: Nashville (July 2023, £5million) Chipped in with seven goals for Cooper's play-off winning side, including a hat-trick in a 5-1 win over Swansea. All but one of his 20 Premier League appearances came off the bench. Honest pro. 7 Signed: Dijon (January 2022, £1.2m) Left: End of contract, 2025 Made only one Championship start before loan spells with Coventry, Cardiff, Standard Liege and Rio Ave. A tough era for a central defender to earn an opportunity. 5 Signed: Union Berlin (July 2022, £17million) His 10 goals were a major factor in keeping Forest in the Premier League, during their first season back. Has been unfortunate with injuries since. But his contribution has been significant. A very well-liked figure behind the scenes. 7 Advertisement Signed: Troyes (July 2022, £5million) Left: Olympiacos (September 2023, undisclosed) The French defender made only two sub appearances in the top flight, before suffering a season-ending knee injury in training. Unfortunate. 4 Signed: Mainz (July 2022, deal worth up to €15million) Left: Lyon (July 2024, £27million) Suffered a hamstring injury in only his second game and did not return until March 2023. Was a useful member of the squad in 2023-24. A good player — but his sale helped Forest remain within profit and sustainability regulations. 7 Signed: Bayern Munich (July 2022, £8.5million) Soon after he signed, it was discovered the full-back had a hairline fracture in his leg. Three years later, he is yet to play for Forest. Has had loans at sister clubs Olympiacos and Rio Ave. 2 Signed: Liverpool (July 2022, £17million) Cooper felt Forest had signed one of the brightest full-back talents in the country when he persuaded Williams to sign. It took a bit of time for Williams to evolve, but he looked to be exactly that last season, when he was outstanding at left-back. 9 Signed: Burnley (July 2022, free) Was signed as a backup, although he did make four Premier League starts in his first season. His character and professionalism have been valued by Nuno Espirito Santo, who has spoken about him taking on a coaching role. 6 Signed: Alajuelense (July 2022, €950,000) Left: Rio Ave (July 2024, undisclosed) The Costa Rica international was immediately sent out on loan to Guanacasteca, before further loan spells at Estoril and Bristol Rovers. Played a total of four minutes of Premier League football for Forest. 4 Signed: Huddersfield (July 2022, £10million joint deal with Lewis O'Brien) Left: End of contract June 2025 Advertisement Despite making only 57 appearances across three seasons for Forest, the defender still managed to make a positive impact. Made a vital clearance off the line in his one Premier League start of the season at Tottenham. Was a mental health ambassador for the club. All round nice guy. 7 Signed: Huddersfield (July 2022, £10million joint deal with Toffolo) After making 13 Premier League appearances in the first half of the campaign, O'Brien wasn't even included in the squad for the second. Loans at D.C. United, Middlesbrough, LAFC and Swansea have followed. 4 Signed: Manchester United (July 2022, free agent) Left: Released May 2023 Was he a flop? Realistically, yes. He provided no goals or assists in his 17 Premier League appearances. Yet he was a popular figure; somebody who helped with unity and team spirit. He was not the signing Forest had hoped. But perhaps not the character people expected, either. 5 Signed: Stuttgart (July 2022, £10.5million) Left: Lyon (January 2024, £10million loan fee, followed by £15m to make move permanent) A dynamic, driving midfielder who evolved into an important figure. His sale helped to ensure Forest stayed on the right side of PSR. A vital piece of business. 7 Signed: Watford (August 2022, £10million) A signing that was announced via a glitzy video. Dennis had scored a respectable 10 Premier League goals in a struggling Watford team, but has never produced at Forest. Has been on loan to Basaksehir, Watford and Blackburn. 3 Signed: Crystal Palace (August 2022, free) Left: End of contract, May 2024 Was signed to bring experience and knowledge, and was largely used as a substitute. But he did everything expected of him. 6 Signed: Atalanta (August 2022, £7.6m) Left: Bologna (September 2023, part of a swap deal with Nicolas Dominguez) The Swiss international was dubbed 'the conductor of the orchestra' at Atalanta because of his ability to dictate the tempo. He was a player with quality and he was good to watch at times. But he also seemed to struggle with the dynamism of the Premier League. 6 Advertisement Signed: Wolves (August 2022, £25m, rising to £42m) Some felt it was a big price tag for the attacking midfielder, who had not always had regular game time at Wolves. It was not. He was always Cooper's number one signing in the first summer after promotion and he has subsequently demonstrated why. Has evolved into one of Forest's most influential players and an England international. He would be almost impossible to replace. 10 Signed: Bordeaux (August 2022, £4million) Left: Alanyaspor (September 2024, free) An odd signing. The South Korean joined Olympiacos on loan, where he barely played, before further loan spells at FC Seoul, Norwich and Alanyaspor. In February, he was given a suspended sentence for secretly filming sex with a woman. 1 Signed: Wolves (September 2022, fee rising to £4.6million) Last season, Boly only started one Premier League game — but Forest are still keen to extend his contract, which tells you a story. Brings experience and leadership. May be useful in Europe. 6 Signed: Blackpool (September 2022, £2.3million) Had done reasonably well with Hull and Blackpool in the Championship but was untested in the top flight. He still is. Has been on loan to Olympiacos, Blackpool, Cardiff, Preston and Luton. Signing for Forest did not aid his development. 3 Signed: Villarreal (September 2022, free agent) Left: Galatasaray (February 2024, £100,000) There had been question marks about his attitude during his time at Tottenham. But there was zero evidence of that at Forest, where he was a mentor to the young players and a significant cog in the machine for a while. 7 Signed: Palmeiras (January 2023, free agent) Left: Atletico Mineiro (January 2024, £4million) He liked to skateboard and learned English by watching old episodes of Friends. He had won the Copa Libertadores twice with Palmeiras. Had all the ingredients to be a cult figure… but he made little impact. 4 Advertisement Signed: Palmeiras (January 2023, £16million) He was going to be part of Nuno Espirito Santo's first-choice midfield this season, alongside Ibrahim Sangare, before he suffered a broken leg on the opening day, against Bournemouth. Forest always believed he could evolve into a high-quality midfielder, and he has. He is expected to join Lyon this summer. 7 Signed: Atletico Madrid (January 2023, €2million) Left: Retired May 2024 A wise addition. The defender added experience and quality. A key figure in survival, particularly in his first four months. 6 Signed: Newcastle (January 2023, undisclosed) Left: Caykur Rizespor (September 2023, free) Shelvey should have been a decent signing. Newcastle wanted to keep him, but he felt he could play a bigger role at the City Ground. Somehow, the midfielder never fitted in. He was frozen out within a few months. 2 Signed: Newcastle (January 2023, loan with an obligation to buy for £15million) Some people thought Wood was going to be a dud. But he has emphatically proved his doubters wrong. After scoring 14 goals in 2023-24, he delivered 20 last season, as one of the most potent finishers in the top flight. 9 Signed: Al Sadd (February 2023, free agent) Left: End of contract, May 2023 A player Cooper knew and trusted from their time together at Swansea. Did not manage to win Forest fans round in quite the same way. 4 Signed: Torino (July 2023, free agent) One of the best free transfer signings the club has ever made. It is hard to think of a better right-back at Forest in the modern era. Has pace, intelligence, defensive positioning and attacking instincts — and is a positive influence in the dressing room. 10 Signed: Manchester United (July 2023, £15million) Advertisement The fastest player at Forest and possibly even in the Premier League. Provided six goals and 11 assists in the season just gone, with his rampaging wing play. United's loss was definitely Forest's gain. Key to the way Forest play under Nuno. 9 Signed: Arsenal (August 2023, £10million) The USMNT player was seen as the answer to Forest's problems in goal… He did not prove to be. After being loaned to Crystal Palace last season, he is expected to join Lyon. 4 Signed: Corinthians (August 2023, £11million) Had only limited first-team experience in Brazil, but very quickly evolved into a defender who is a joy to watch at Forest. Has attracted admiring glances from some of the biggest clubs in Europe. If he ever does move on, it will be for a massive fee. That 40-yard screamer is coming. 10 Signed: Bologna (September 2023, part of a swap deal with Remo Freuler) His importance to the side could easily go under the radar. Versatile, hard working, dynamic and capable of playing in numerous roles. Consistently good. 8 Signed: Chelsea (September 2023, £5million) Almost unstoppable when he cuts in from the left side. The winger has scored 13 goals, but he brings so much more. His pace is at the heart of Forest's counter-attacking style. A bargain. 8 Signed: Benfica (September 2023, £6.8million) Left: Newcastle (July 2024, £20million) Conceded 12 goals in his five league starts for Forest. Had played in the Champions League with Benfica and previously flourished at Panathinaikos. But generally looked uncertain with Forest. 4 Signed: PSV (September 2023, £30million) Forest regarded Sangare as a transformative signing; a midfielder who could allow them to adapt how they play. His impact has been limited by injury. But the Ivory Coast international began to show his class again in recent months. 7 (but could still rise to 8) Advertisement Signed: Norwich (September 2023, £11million) The central defender was regarded as one of the brightest prospects in the Championship. Made 11 league appearances for Forest in 2023-24, without looking out of place. Has been on loan at Strasbourg this year, who do have an option to make the move permanent. 6 Signed: Strasbourg (February 2024, £5million) Sels has been outstanding this season, keeping 13 clean sheets to win the Golden Glove award alongside Arsenal's David Raya. Then there were his repeated penalty heroics in the FA Cup. What goalkeeper problem? 9 Signed: Red Star Belgrade (June 2024, £5million) Was immediately sent on loan to Olympiacos, where he has not pulled up any trees. Still young. 5 Signed: St Pauli (June 2024, £1.25million) Signed as a long-term investment for the future. The 19-year-old did make two brief sub appearances in the Premier League — but was never expected to make an immediate impact. 6 Signed: Newcastle (June 2024, £15million — due to £20million part exchange of Vlachodimos) Was signed to compete on the left side, but instead made one of the central midfield spots his own. An outstanding debut season. He is an England Under-21 regular and must be pushing for a senior cap. Expect him to be a big player again next season. 10 Signed: Corinthians (July 2024, £3.4million) Was seen as backup to Sels, but also as a player who could push the Belgian for his place. But is yet to do so. 5 Signed: Fiorentina (July 2024, £11million) A transformative figure in the Forest defence. Solid, dependable and unflinching — he also made Murillo better alongside him. A complete bargain. Amazing that no other Premier League sides made a serious effort to sign him. 10 Advertisement Signed: Vitoria (August 2024, £6million) The Portuguese Jack Grealish has made 26 of his 31 Premier League appearances off the bench, but always looks determined to make something happen. Has scored three goals. Feels like there is more to come. 7 Signed: Talleres (August 2024, £11million) His one start and 18 sub appearances only amounted to 284 minutes of football. Forest always felt that it might take a season for Sosa to settle. 6 100. David Carmo Signed: Porto (August 2024, £10million) Immediately returned to Olympiacos (where he had impressed during the 2023-24 campaign) on loan. Has become a well-respected defender in Athens. Is expected to get the chance to prove himself in pre-season at Forest. 7 Signed: Benfica (August 2024, £15million) Of his 26 appearances, 20 have been as sub. On the many occasions when Morato came off the bench, you felt assured that Forest would not concede a goal. Did dip slightly in form a little. Hugely imposing. 7 Signed: Reading (February 2025, nominal fee) Immediately rejoined Reading on loan after signing for Forest — and won their player of the season award. The defender is highly regarded. May go out on loan again. 6 (Top photos: Getty Images)
The Irish Sun
12 hours ago
- Sport
- The Irish Sun
Transfer news LIVE: Wirtz to Liverpool announcement IMMINENT, Chelsea ‘lead Gittens race', Napoli ‘want Nunez'
THE thrills and spills of the summer transfer window are well underway with some huge deals in the pipeline. Advertisement Elsewhere, In other news, Napoli are reportedly eyeing up a potential move for Follow ALL the latest news, moves and completed deals with our live blog below... Advertisement By Branthwaite contract Jarrad Branthwaite is reportedly in talks with Everton over a new contract. Sky Sports have claimed that manager David Moyes is keen to cement the defender's future at the club. He has previously been linked with Liverpool, Manchester United, and Tottenham. Copy link Copied By Leeds striker move Leeds have reportedly made a move to add Nikola Krstovic to their squad. Reports in Italy have claimed that an enquiry has been made by the Yorkshire club for the Lecce striker. It is not yet known if the Montenegrin would be interested in a switch to Elland Road. Copy link Copied By Partey exit close Thomas Partey is reportedly closing in on an exit from Arsenal. The midfielder's contract is expiring at the end of the month and he would then be free to move clubs. Talks over a new deal have been ongoing but there has been no confirmation of an agreement. Copy link Copied By Noni could move Noni Madueke could make a shock exit from Chelsea this summer. The Telegraph have claimed that the winger is not considered "untouchable". The report continued to suggest that there a number of Premier League clubs "in the market" for a winger. Copy link Copied By Martinez contact Manchester United have reportedly made contact with Emiliano Martinez. Fabrizio Romano has claimed that discussions have taken place and the goalkeeper is ready to say yes to the move. Copy link Copied By Martinez contact Manchester United have reportedly made contact with Emiliano Martinez. Fabrizio Romano has claimed that discussions have taken place and the goalkeeper is ready to say yes to the move. Copy link Copied By Eagles swoop Crystal Palace could be tracking a potential replacement for Marc Guehi. Fabrizio Romano has claimed that the South London side are in talks to sign Ousmane Diomande from Sporting Lisbon. The report claims that the player is open to the move and manager Oliver Glasner has given his approval to the deal. Copy link Copied By Boly deal Willy Boly has signed a new one-year contract at Nottingham Forest. The experienced defender will remain at the City Ground until at least 2026. After signing the contract, he said: "I am very happy to have signed a new contract with the club and look forward to another season with such a great team and supporters. 'We need to build on what was a great season and I am excited to see what we can achieve as a squad this year.' Copy link Copied By Boly deal Willy Boly has signed a new one-year contract at Nottingham Forest. The experienced defender will remain at the City Ground until at least 2026. After signing the contract, he said: "I am very happy to have signed a new contract with the club and look forward to another season with such a great team and supporters. 'We need to build on what was a great season and I am excited to see what we can achieve as a squad this year.' Copy link Copied By More on Liverpool Liverpool are reportedly keen on adding Marc Guehi to their defensive options. The Times have claimed that while Jarell Quansah is not being pushed out of the door at Anfield, they have his replacement in mind. Guehi is one of the Premier League's top defenders outside of the top six and has long been linked with an exit from Selhurst Park. Copy link Copied By Quansah wanted Jarell Quansah is reportedly wanted by Bayer Leverkusen. The Bundesliga outfit is "ready to step up" their efforts to sign the Liverpool ace. The Times have claimed that the move could progress once Florian Wirtz completes his transfer the other way. It adds that Liverpool will demand £40million to consider cashing in on the young defender. Copy link Copied By Spurs line up Kudus Tottenham are reportedly considering a move to sign West Ham star Mohammed Kudus. The two rivals very rarely do business with each other, as Scott Parker was the last player to make the switch in 2011. Reports have claimed that Kudus could be the next player to swap East for North. The Hammers are hoping for a fee close to £80million with Manchester United, Chelsea and Newcastle also interested. Copy link Copied By Mbeumo update Manchester United have reportedly upped their offer for Bryan Mbeumo. The Cameroonian is being chased by the Red Devils along with Tottenham and Newcastle. The Sunday Times have claimed that Man United have made their move and offered MORE than £60million for the Brentford forward. Copy link Copied By Walker to Everton reminder Manchester City star Kyle Walker has agreed to join Everton on a one-year deal. Walker has been locked in talks with the Toffees since his return from his loan spell at AC Milan. The Merseysiders and City will now thrash out whether it is a permanent deal or just a 12-month loan while he sees out the remainder of his Etihad contract. Fulham also enquired about the 35-year-old but could not afford to sign him. Copy link Copied By Walker to Everton reminder Manchester City star Kyle Walker has agreed to join Everton on a one-year deal. Walker has been locked in talks with the Toffees since his return from his loan spell at AC Milan. The Merseysiders and City will now thrash out whether it is a permanent deal or just a 12-month loan while he sees out the remainder of his Etihad contract. Fulham also enquired about the 35-year-old but could not afford to sign him. Copy link Copied By Arsenal signing Zubimendi Arsenal are close to finally sealing the deal for Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi. That is according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, who reports a fee has been agreed between the Gunners and Sociedad. The North Londoners will pay slightly more than Zubimendi's £70million release clause. The two clubs have an 'excellent relationship' and so the Spanish outfit has allowed Arsenal to pay in instalments. Copy link Copied By Arsenal signing Zubimendi Arsenal are close to finally sealing the deal for Real Sociedad star Martin Zubimendi. That is according to transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, who reports a fee has been agreed between the Gunners and Sociedad. The North Londoners will pay slightly more than Zubimendi's £70million release clause. The two clubs have an 'excellent relationship' and so the Spanish outfit has allowed Arsenal to pay in instalments. Copy link Copied By Rashford's Newcastle decision Manchester United ace Marcus Rashford will snub a move to Newcastle. According to The Daily Star, Rashford is ready to turn down a move to St James' Park despite the Toon qualifying for the Champions League. Any deal with the Magpies is reported to have to be a loan deal. It's been previously reported the versatile forward is prioritising a move to Barcelona, who appear to be closing in on Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams. Copy link Copied By Rashford's Newcastle decision Manchester United ace Marcus Rashford will snub a move to Newcastle. According to The Daily Star, Rashford is ready to turn down a move to St James' Park despite the Toon qualifying for the Champions League. Any deal with the Magpies is reported to have to be a loan deal. It's been previously reported the versatile forward is prioritising a move to Barcelona, who appear to be closing in on Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams. Copy link Copied By Gyokeres' Arsenal boost Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres is likelier to join Arsenal than any other suitor. The Gunners have been embroiled in a bidding war for Gyokeres along with Juventus and Premier League foes Manchester United. According to The same source claims Cetinkaya has told Juve they are prioritising the North Londoners. Copy link Copied By Gyokeres' Arsenal boost Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres is likelier to join Arsenal than any other suitor. The Gunners have been embroiled in a bidding war for Gyokeres along with Juventus and Premier League foes Manchester United. According to The same source claims Cetinkaya has told Juve they are prioritising the North Londoners. Copy link Copied By More on Joao Pedro Chelsea are plotting a swoop to hijack Newcastle's move for Joao Pedro. SunSport revealed talks have begun between the Magpies and Brighton over a £60million deal for the Brazilian forward. That was after the 23-year-old's representatives indicated he wanted to join them and be part of their Champions League push. Toon knew that Chelsea were also keen, but now the Blues could be about to try and launch their own move. Like Newcastle, Blues chiefs are huge admirers of his ability and versatility to play anywhere across the front line. Unlike their Premier League rivals, they are yet to open negotiations with the Seagulls, but they are considering an attempt to land him and bolster Enzo Marseca's squad. Brighton already have Greek attacker Charalampos Kostoulas as replacement. Copy link Copied By More on Son We wrote earlier how Fenerbahce are keeping tabs on Tottenham star Son Heung-min - a prospect that would see him reuniting with former manager Jose Mourinho. But also claim Son is now in the crosshairs of three teams from Saudi Arabia. Al-Ahli, Al-Nassr and Al-Qadsiah are all big fans of the versatile forward. They are each willing to splash out £34million to bring the South Korea international to the Middle East. And Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy is open to doing business as he raises funds for new manager Thomas Frank. Copy link Copied By Gyokeres transfer revelation Sporting Lisbon Viktor Gyokeres has told his family where he expects to play next season. Gyokeres is being looked at by both Arsenal and Manchester United this summer. I had a message 24 hours or so ago suggesting that Viktor Gyokeres has told friends and family he expects to join Arsenal. We know that Manchester United are interested in signing him as well - obviously there is that pre-existing relationship with Ruben Amorim. But Arsenal can offer Champions League football, maybe can offer a tilt at the title next season. Arsenal are juggling both him and Benjamin Sesko, they've opened talks with Leipzig as well. But at the moment, I would say Gyokeres looks the more likely. Alex Crook TalkSPORT Copy link Copied By Nico Williams blow Arsenal have been dealt a massive blow in their bid for Athletic Bilbao star Nico Williams. According to transfer insider Florian Plettenberg, Barcelona currently have the best chances of signing Williams this summer. Plettenberg claims Barca are likely to beat the Gunners as well as Bayern Munich and Chelsea. 'Important new negotiations' have taken place between all parties over the past 24 hours. Barcelona president Joan Laporta is now assessing whether a transfer is feasible and if Williams can be registered. Copy link Copied 1 …
