AliousNottingham Forest have successfully reached an agreement with Aberdeen for the transfer of highly-rated Scotland youth international defender Lewis Carrol, sources have revealed to *Football Insider*.
The 16-year-old rising star had attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, but Forest moved swiftly to outmaneuver their rivals and secure his signature. Despite his young age, Carrol has already made a name for himself as a key player in Aberdeen’s under-18 squad, which clinched the league title.
Carrol signed his first professional contract with Aberdeen in June 2024 and has also represented Scotland at the U17 level, further cementing his status as one of the country’s top young defensive prospects.
### **Forest’s Transfer Strategy Under Nuno Espírito Santo**
Nottingham Forest, currently sitting third in the Premier League table and on course for Champions League qualification, are shifting their transfer strategy under manager Nuno Espírito Santo. After narrowly avoiding relegation in the 2023/24 season and facing a points deduction due to financial issues linked to a post-promotion transfer spree in 2022, the club is now focusing on long-term squad development.
In line with this approach, Forest are also making a late push to sign Plymouth Argyle’s teenage sensation Tegan Finn, signaling a clear emphasis on investing in young talent for the future.
It’s been a relatively quiet January transfer window for the Tricky Trees, with Nuno showing confidence in his current squad, which has emerged as a surprise title contender this season. The only significant outgoing deal has been the termination of James Ward-Prowse’s loan from West Ham United.
Meanwhile, midfielder Lewis O’Brien is poised to leave the City Ground, as he undergoes a medical ahead of a deadline day move to Swansea City.
Forest’s capture of Lewis Carrol reflects their renewed focus on nurturing young talent, aiming to build a sustainable squad capable of competing at the highest level for years to come.
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