Nottingham Forest are actively seeking reinforcements ahead of the January transfer window, with a new talismanic figure reportedly high on their priority list. While Chris Wood’s remarkable form this season—scoring 13 goals and standing just one short of last season’s total—has provided a dependable outlet in attack, Forest recognize the need for greater depth and options upfront, especially amid uncertainty surrounding Taiwo Awoniyi’s future. Awoniyi, who is attracting interest from West Ham, could potentially leave, leaving Forest in need of an attacker who can hit the ground running.
The club’s owner, Evangelos Marinakis, is said to be intent on bringing in a quality striker before the transfer window closes, but the challenge lies in finding a player who can make an immediate impact while potentially being second choice to Wood. January transfers are notoriously tricky, particularly for strikers, as clubs are reluctant to part with key players mid-season, and it can be challenging to attract high-caliber talent without guaranteed starting opportunities.
One name heavily linked with Forest is Baris Yilmaz, the 24-year-old Turkish international currently plying his trade at Galatasaray. Yilmaz has been on Forest’s radar for some time, with scouts reportedly attending several of his matches. His record this season—11 goals and one assist in 28 appearances—highlights his ability to contribute consistently in the final third. Although he has predominantly operated as a winger, Yilmaz has demonstrated versatility by excelling in central attacking roles when required, making him an appealing target for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
However, securing Yilmaz’s signature is proving to be a complex task. Reports suggest that Galatasaray are unwilling to entertain offers for the player during the January window, with Fotospor noting that Lazio are also interested in the forward. The Turkish club may be reluctant to disrupt their squad mid-season, especially as they chase domestic and potentially European success. Forest were reportedly preparing a £16.5 million bid for Yilmaz, but it appears this amount might not be enough to persuade Galatasaray to part ways with their star. Additionally, Yilmaz himself may have reservations about Forest’s European credentials, with his interest potentially hinging on the club securing qualification for continental competition.
Should Forest fail to land Yilmaz in January, they may have to revisit the deal in the summer. His age, versatility, and potential for further development make him an ideal fit for Forest’s recruitment strategy, which emphasizes signing players with long-term value and significant resale potential. At just 24, Yilmaz has his best years ahead of him, and his ability to play multiple roles in attack would provide Nuno Espirito Santo with valuable tactical flexibility.
Fans would likely embrace a signing like Yilmaz, as he represents the type of player capable of elevating the team’s offensive output. His technical quality and knack for finding the back of the net make him an exciting prospect for the Premier League. However, Forest must tread carefully; waiting too long or failing to make the deal happen could open the door for rivals like Lazio or other clubs to swoop in during the summer.
In the short term, Forest may need to explore alternative options in the transfer market if they are to adequately address their attacking needs. Losing Awoniyi would undoubtedly create a gap that needs filling, and relying solely on Chris Wood may not be sustainable over the course of a long and demanding campaign.
Ultimately, while Baris Yilmaz remains a tantalizing prospect for Nottingham Forest, the deal’s complexities may force the club to pivot towards other targets for the January window. If Marinakis and the recruitment team can secure the right addition, it could prove to be the catalyst for a strong finish to the season and a potential platform for future success.