Nottingham Forest are actively pursuing several players to address their depleted squad, particularly in attack and defense. Key targets include:
Jacob Ramsey (Aston Villa, Attacking Midfielder):
Forest have made Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey a primary target to potentially fill the void left by Morgan Gibbs-White, should his transfer to Tottenham materialize, as reported by The Telegraph. The 24-year-old versatile forward, capable of playing across the frontline or in attacking midfield, has long been admired by Forest. Ramsey’s 2024-2025 season was hampered by injuries, limiting him to 21 Premier League appearances with 3 goals and 4 assists (WhoScored), but his dynamism and Premier League experience make him an ideal candidate. With Ramsey not guaranteed a starting role at Villa, a £30 million move could be feasible, offering Forest a homegrown talent to meet UEFA squad requirements. This signing would signal Forest’s ambition to maintain their attacking flair.
Bilal El Khannouss (Leicester City, Attacking Midfielder):
With uncertainty surrounding Gibbs-White, Forest are eyeing Leicester City’s 21-year-old attacking midfielder Bilal El Khannouss as a potential replacement. The Moroccan international, who joined Leicester from Genk in 2024, has shown promise with his dribbling and creativity, though his end product (2 goals, 3 assists in 30 appearances last season, per WhoScored) requires refinement. El Khannouss’s youth and potential align with Forest’s strategy of investing in players with resale value. A move could cost around £20-25 million, and his addition would provide depth in midfield, crucial for the rigors of European competition. This signing would also reflect Forest’s ambition to blend young talent with Premier League experience.
Ben Doak (Liverpool, Winger):
Liverpool’s 19-year-old winger Ben Doak is a target to replace Elanga’s pace. The Scottish youngster, who spent part of 2024-2025 on loan at Middlesbrough, recorded 2 goals and 4 assists in the Championship (WhoScored). Available on loan or for a permanent £10-15 million transfer, Doak’s raw speed and potential make him a low-risk, high-reward option. His signing would also align with Forest’s focus on developing young talent for long-term success.
Santiago Gimenez (Feyenoord, Striker):
Forest are considering Feyenoord’s Santiago Gimenez, a 24-year-old Mexican striker, per The Sun. Gimenez scored 23 goals in 30 Eredivisie matches in 2024-2025, showcasing his clinical finishing. With Feyenoord open to a £35 million deal, Gimenez could provide a long-term solution up top, complementing Wood and Awoniyi. His European experience would be invaluable for Forest’s Europa League campaign, making this an ambitious but achievable target.
Matt O’Riley (Brighton, Midfielder):
Brighton’s Matt O’Riley, a 24-year-old Danish midfielder, has caught Forest’s attention. O’Riley’s 8 goals and 11 assists in the 2023/24 season at Celtic highlight his box-to-box capabilities, offering versatility in midfield. With Brighton potentially open to a £25 million deal due to squad competition, O’Riley could provide depth and quality, especially if Forest face a midfield exodus. His European experience with Celtic adds further appeal for Forest’s continental aspirations.
