Nottingham Forest could now look to hijack a rival Premier League club’s move for an “unbelievable” player, according to transfer expert Graeme Bailey.
Forest's summer transfer plans taking shape
Forest still have plenty to play for this season, with Champions League qualification still very much on the cards despite the 2-1 defeat against Aston Villa last weekend, while they will also have dreams of winning the FA Cup.
However, with the summer transfer window edging ever closer, it is important Nuno begins to lay the groundwork ahead of next season, and the manager appears to be particularly keen on signing a new striker.
Sporting CP’s Viktor Gyokeres, AFC Bournemouth’s Evanilson, and Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Matheus Cunha are some of the biggest names on the shortlist, with Everton’s Dominic Calvert-Lewin also emerging as an option in recent days.
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Bolstering his attacking options appears to be a priority for Nuno, but there have also been suggestions the manager could look to bring in a new goalkeeper this summer, with replacements being eyed for Matz Sels, despite his impressive form.
Southampton goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale is one of the names on the shortlist, with the 26-year-old set to be available for £25m, now the Saints’ relegation from the Premier League has been confirmed.
Speaking to Nottingham Forest News, transfer expert Bailey has now confirmed Burnley’s James Trafford is also of interest to the Trickly Trees, saying: “They have been delighted with how Sels has performed, he has been superb but I know they are looking at the market.
“There are some very good goalkeepers going to be available – Aaron Ramsdale, James Trafford and Caoimhin Kelleher amongst them, and Forest like those three – and that isn’t including the plethora of foreign options. It is not definite but they are looking at it.”
Trafford could be "unbelievable" signing
Sels has been reliable for Forest between the sticks this season, starting all 31 of their Premier League matches, but there are clear indications Trafford could be an upgrade on the Belgian.
Burnley have shipped just 12 goals in the Championship this season, which is by far the best defensive record in the league, and he has received high praise from minority owner JJ Watt, who lauded the goalkeeper as “unbelievable”.
That description is fully justified, given that the 6’6″ colossus ranks extremely highly on a number of key metrics for goalkeepers over the past year.
Statistic
Average per 90
Goals against
0.30 (99th percentile)
Save percentage
86.0% (99th percentile)
Save % (Penalty kicks)
100% (95th percentile)
Clean sheet percentage
70% (99th percentile)
Trafford has long been expected to sign for Newcastle United this summer, and it may be difficult to hijack the move for the goalkeeper, but if Champions League football is on offer at the City Ground next season, moving to Forest could be an attractive proposition.