Alious
Nottingham Forest are already setting their sights on the January transfer window, building on their successful summer strategy that prioritized quality over quantity. This approach has forced several pundits, including Ian Ladyman of the Daily Mail and Sam Matterface, to retract their pessimistic pre-season predictions about the club’s recruitment strategy and survival prospects.
Currently sitting third in the Premier League, Forest’s transfer priorities have shifted. While they previously pursued strikers like Santiago Gimenez and Eddie Nketiah (who opted for Crystal Palace), Chris Wood’s impressive tally of eight goals has reduced the urgency for a new forward.
According to Florian Plettenberg, Forest have initiated contact with Bayern Munich regarding talented 19-year-old winger Mathys Tel. The French youngster, who joined Bayern from Rennes in 2022, has accumulated 16 goals and six assists across 76 appearances, though he’s started just one Bundesliga game this season. While Tel reportedly isn’t considering a loan move this winter, several clubs, including Werder Bremen, are monitoring his situation.
Notably, Tel has been mentored by Harry Kane since the England captain’s arrival at Bayern Munich. Kane has publicly praised Tel’s training ethic, commitment, and impact as a substitute, highlighting the youngster’s confidence and potential.
Forest’s current wide options include Callum Hudson-Odoi, who has scored against both Liverpool and West Ham, and Anthony Elanga, who is still seeking his first goal. Summer signings Jota Silva and Ramon Sosa have made impactful substitute appearances. The interest in Tel might be strategic, potentially serving as a contingency plan given Newcastle’s deadline day interest in Elanga.
The club’s improved league position and revised transfer strategy suggest they’re now able to target a different caliber of player, marking a significant evolution in their recruitment approach.
Alious
