Nottingham Forest is ramping up their efforts to strengthen the squad ahead of the January transfer window’s closing, with a focus on attacking reinforcements. Evangelos Marinakis, the club’s owner, is keen to ensure that Forest is well-stocked in the final third for the remainder of the season. With the team looking to build on their recent form, it is clear that their ambition is to not only stay competitive in the Premier League but also push for a potential European qualification spot. The club is reportedly exploring a number of options to bring in attacking players before the transfer deadline.

Matheus Cunha has emerged as a target for Forest. The Brazilian forward, currently at Wolves, has been the subject of speculation linking him with a move to the City Ground. However, Wolves, currently embroiled in a relegation battle and having slipped into the relegation zone, are unlikely to sanction a sale. Cunha’s move could prove difficult, especially with Wolves in a fight for survival, and it is unlikely they will want to lose any key players at this stage.

Another name on Forest’s radar is Yoane Wissa of Brentford. The attacker has been linked with a move to the Midlands, but there is a significant hurdle to overcome. Jamie Redknapp recently suggested that Wissa could cost Forest as much as £40 million, which would make the deal a tricky one for the club to execute, given their limited budget and the inflated transfer market. Wissa has been a key player for Brentford, and with several top clubs reportedly interested in his services, Forest may struggle to secure a move unless the price is right.

While attacking reinforcements are a priority, it is clear that Forest is also assessing other areas of the squad as the transfer window nears its end. One position that has been a long-term concern for Forest is midfield, and it appears that the club is eyeing a significant addition in this area as well. The player in question is Douglas Luiz, the Brazilian midfielder who joined Juventus from Aston Villa in the summer for a fee of £42 million. Forest are reportedly waiting in the wings to try and secure Luiz’s signature before the transfer deadline, with the midfielder having quickly established himself as a standout performer at Aston Villa last season.

Luiz played a crucial role in Villa’s push for a top-four finish in the Premier League last season, helping them qualify for the Champions League for the first time in many years. His performances were so impressive that he became one of the most sought-after midfielders in the Premier League. However, due to financial pressures, Villa had to sell, and Luiz moved to Juventus in a big-money transfer. Despite his move to Italy, Luiz’s future remains uncertain, and it’s understood that Forest could be preparing to make a move for him.

Forest’s interest in Luiz comes at a time when the club has been struggling in midfield, particularly since Ibrahim Sangaré’s injury in August. The team has lacked a proper midfield enforcer capable of dominating the middle of the park. Luiz fits the profile of the type of player Forest need, with his technical ability, tactical intelligence, and combative nature in midfield. Given his experience and age—26 years old—Luiz would be an ideal addition for Forest, offering both immediate quality and long-term potential.

While the move for Luiz is likely to be difficult, it is not entirely out of the question. Forest’s strong season so far, which has them competing for a European spot, could make the club an appealing destination for Luiz. While several top clubs, including Manchester City, Chelsea, Manchester United, and Fulham, are also reportedly interested in his services, Forest’s ambitions this season might make them an attractive option for Luiz, particularly if they can offer him a permanent move rather than a short-term loan.

Securing a player like Luiz would be a major coup for Forest, as it would fill a key gap in the squad and offer additional strength in the middle of the park. A player of Luiz’s quality could also elevate Forest’s chances of securing a European spot, which could play a crucial role in their recruitment strategy. However, with interest from several high-profile clubs, Forest faces stiff competition in landing the Brazilian, and the deal will likely come down to whether the player sees Forest as the right fit for his career at this point in time.

While the club remains focused on bringing in attacking reinforcements, it is clear that Forest is also looking at strengthening other areas of the squad. If a deal for Luiz materializes, it would be a massive boost for the club as they aim to continue their progress and challenge for a top-half finish in the Premier League. However, with the transfer deadline fast approaching, the pressure is on Forest to act quickly and secure the signings they need to ensure a successful second half of the season.