Steve Cooper is reportedly already planning for the upcoming January transfer window as Nottingham Forest faces a challenging start to the 2023/24 Premier League season. The team, promoted in 2022, secured their Premier League status in the previous campaign and aims to build on that achievement.
Since their promotion, Cooper has made significant changes to the squad, adding 34 players through loans, transfers, and free-agent signings. While the influx of new players has slowed down the team’s progress as they adapt to the Premier League, there have been positive signs in the first ten games of the season.
However, Nottingham Forest finds themselves perilously close to the relegation zone, sitting 16th with just two wins. In response, it appears that Cooper may seek further reinforcements to establish Forest as a top-flight team rather than one adjusting to life post-promotion.
Some potential January transfer targets for Nottingham Forest have emerged, with a focus on bolstering their forward options. Samuel Iling-Junior, a summer target from Juventus, is rumored to be available for around £13 million, drawing interest from Everton, Brighton, and Forest. Serhou Guirassy, a prolific 27-year-old forward from Stuttgart, is wanted by both Forest and Fulham.
During the summer, Forest attempted to sign Turkish winger Karem Akturkoglu but had their £9.5 million bid rejected by Galatasaray. Recent reports suggest they may revisit the idea of signing him in the winter, though they face competition from other Premier League clubs.
Karem Akturkoglu, a 25-year-old winger, has been in excellent form in the 2023/24 season, scoring five goals and providing seven assists in 19 appearances. He has demonstrated his ability against English teams, including a goal against Manchester United in the Champions League. Akturkoglu’s style of play combines dynamism, directness, and playmaking abilities, making him a valuable addition to Forest’s attacking options.
The departure of Brennan Johnson, known for his pace, from Forest has created a gap that Akturkoglu could potentially fill. Comparing their previous league campaigns, Akturkoglu appears to offer an upgrade in terms of goals, assists, and playmaking abilities.
While Forest faces competition for Akturkoglu’s signature, the prospect of acquiring him is an exciting one for the team.
Leave a Reply