Nottingham Forest’s summer transfer window is set to be a pivotal one, filled with decisions that could shape the club’s trajectory in both domestic and European football. After an impressive season in which Forest secured a place in the UEFA Conference League, the club now faces a balancing act between reinforcing their squad, particularly in the forward areas, and trying to retain their key players who have been the backbone of their recent success. Among those, Anthony Elanga has become a focal point, with reports linking him to a move to Newcastle United, a club gearing up for a return to Champions League football. The interest in Elanga is significant, as he has developed into one of Forest’s most important players.

Anthony Elanga: A Key Player in the System

Anthony Elanga has played a vital role in Forest’s recent success under Steve Cooper and Nuno Espirito Santo. The Swedish international’s blend of pace, creativity, and direct attacking threat has made him one of the standout performers in the Forest lineup. His contributions last season were instrumental, as he not only scored goals but also provided key assists, playing a central role in the club’s offensive game plan. Elanga’s ability to stretch defenses and create space for others has made him a perfect fit in Forest’s counter-attacking system.

However, this summer could bring significant change. Newcastle United are reportedly interested in bringing Elanga to Tyneside as part of their push for Champions League football. The Magpies have enjoyed a successful period under Eddie Howe, and their qualification for Europe’s elite competition has given them the financial muscle and ambition to strengthen their squad further. For Forest, losing Elanga could be a massive blow. His departure would not only affect the offensive fluidity of the team but could also leave a gap in the squad that would be hard to fill, especially with the club’s European campaign on the horizon.

Forest’s European ambitions are a major factor in keeping their key players, and Elanga is one of the most important figures in this squad. If Forest are to make a meaningful impact in the UEFA Conference League, it is crucial they retain their best assets. A move to Newcastle, a club with Champions League aspirations, would certainly be tempting for Elanga. However, Forest will do everything in their power to keep him, especially as their squad rebuilds in preparation for a new challenge. It’s clear that the club sees Elanga as a key piece of their future, and they will likely do everything possible to persuade him to stay.

The Search for Reinforcements: Anis Hadj Moussa

With Anthony Elanga’s future uncertain, Forest are already making moves in the transfer market to find reinforcements. One name that has emerged as a potential target is Anis Hadj Moussa, the Feyenoord winger who has impressed during the 2024/25 season with his performances in the Eredivisie. The 23-year-old Algerian has been in exceptional form, scoring 11 goals and registering 6 assists, showcasing his attacking prowess. Moussa’s versatility also makes him an attractive option for Forest, as he can operate as a right-winger, a number 10, or even as a left-winger in a front three. This adaptability gives Nuno Espirito Santo significant tactical flexibility, as it allows him to rotate his squad and experiment with different attacking setups.

However, Forest are not the only club interested in Moussa. Liverpool, who are also looking to strengthen their attacking ranks, have been linked with the Algerian forward, along with other clubs such as Marseille, Lille, and Sevilla. While competition is fierce, Forest may have an edge in this race due to their immediate need for reinforcements in the winger position and their status as a club preparing for European football. Moussa, who would likely be excited by the prospect of playing in England’s top-flight league while also participating in UEFA competition, could be drawn to Forest as a stepping stone for his career.

With an asking price of £18 million, Moussa represents a relatively affordable option in a market that is increasingly inflating transfer fees. His price tag is manageable, especially for a player with the potential to develop into one of the Premier League’s top talents. The question is whether Forest can move quickly enough to secure the deal, especially with the possibility of Liverpool and other clubs swooping in with higher offers. If Forest manage to get Moussa, it would be an exciting signing that could complement Elanga or even provide much-needed depth in the wide areas if Elanga does depart.

A New Forward Line: The Addition of Igor Jesus

Aside from Moussa, Forest are also looking to strengthen other areas of their attack. One player who has been mentioned as a potential target is Igor Jesus, who could provide additional competition in the forward line. The Brazilian forward, who impressed in the Brazilian Serie A, would bring a different dimension to Forest’s attack. His speed, technical ability, and finishing prowess could be a valuable asset, especially in the higher-stakes competitions that come with European football.

The signing of Jesus would be a smart move for Forest, as it would provide more depth in the attacking positions, something that will be crucial when juggling Premier League and European commitments. The club is looking to rebuild a forward line that has seen the potential departures of Jota Silva and Ramon Sosa, two players who have contributed to Forest’s attacking play but are now drawing interest from clubs abroad. Silva is reportedly attracting attention from Sporting CP in Portugal, while Palmeiras are keen on signing Ramon Sosa, with Brazilian clubs continuing to scout him for a potential move.

The departure of both Silva and Sosa would further leave Forest short of attacking options, especially in the wide areas and forward positions. However, the addition of players like Moussa and Igor Jesus could fill that void and ensure Forest have the depth and quality required to succeed in Premier League football as well as their European adventure. The importance of having quality depth will only become clearer as the season progresses, with injuries and suspensions inevitably taking their toll on the squad.

Strategic Rebuild: Maintaining Premier League and European Ambitions

Nottingham Forest’s ambitions for the future are clear: they want to establish themselves as a consistent Premier League club, and over time, push for even greater success by regularly competing in European competitions. For this to happen, the club needs to build a squad that can handle the rigors of both domestic and European football. This means retaining their key players and adding new talent that can help the team evolve and improve.

Forest’s strategy this summer seems to focus on reinforcing their attacking options, with potential moves for Anis Hadj Moussa, Igor Jesus, and others. The versatility of Moussa, in particular, could give Nuno Espirito Santo significant flexibility in his tactical approach, allowing Forest to switch between different attacking setups depending on the opposition. If Forest can add Moussa and other reinforcements, they will be well-positioned to challenge for both a Premier League spot and a strong showing in European football.

At the same time, the club needs to balance its ambitions with the reality of maintaining a competitive squad. Steve Cooper and Nuno Espirito Santo will need to ensure that their squad is capable of handling the physical and mental demands of a busy fixture schedule, especially with the added responsibility of European football. Ensuring the depth of the squad will be crucial in managing injuries, form, and fatigue, and making sure the team can compete on multiple fronts.

The Final Word: A Busy Summer Ahead

It’s clear that Nottingham Forest are entering a crucial period in their history. The decisions made in this transfer window will have a lasting impact on the club’s future, both in terms of their Premier League aspirations and their ambitions in European competition. The key to their success will lie in their ability to strengthen in the right areas, particularly the attack, while also ensuring that their current squad remains intact. With potential moves for players like Anis Hadj Moussa and Igor Jesus, Forest could be well-equipped to push for greater success in the upcoming season. However, the future of Anthony Elanga remains a central issue, and it is imperative that Forest do all they can to retain him, ensuring that their squad remains as strong as possible for the challenges ahead.

It’s a summer of uncertainty, but also one full of opportunity, and Nottingham Forest fans will be watching eagerly to see how their club navigates this important period in its history.