Nottingham Forest’s pursuit of a striker to complement Chris Wood has been one of the most publicized aspects of their January transfer plans. With Chris Wood’s future at the club uncertain but still hopeful of agreeing on a new contract, the focus has shifted to finding a viable back-up option for the New Zealand international. Numerous names have emerged in the rumour mill, with two Brazilian strikers—Yuri Alberto and Igor Jesus—at the heart of discussions. Both players have generated significant attention due to their goal-scoring potential, and as a result, Nottingham Forest has been actively exploring these options.

The club has been long-admiring Yuri Alberto, a talented forward who has been exceptional for Corinthians, scoring an impressive 31 goals in just 57 appearances throughout 2024. Alberto has proven himself to be a dynamic and clinical striker, one who could make an immediate impact at the City Ground. Forest’s interest in Alberto has been persistent, and the club has now reportedly been offered the chance to sign him in principle. While the deal could be an expensive one, particularly if it involves a loan with an option to buy, it is clear that Forest is keeping a close eye on this opportunity. The offer for Alberto, though not yet confirmed, presents an enticing possibility for Forest to strengthen their attack with a proven goal-scorer who could complement Wood’s style of play.

While Forest’s interest in Alberto has been well-documented, they have also maintained a long-standing interest in Igor Jesus, who currently plays for Botafogo. Like Alberto, Jesus is known for his goal-scoring ability and has been a consistent performer, netting eight goals in 31 appearances. Jesus has reportedly given the green light for a potential move to Forest, but the club’s priority has shifted towards Alberto in recent weeks. This shift in focus on Alberto has meant that Forest has not pushed forward with their interest in Jesus, despite initial indications that the Brazilian striker might have been a viable option.

Graeme Bailey, a trusted source for Nottingham Forest news, confirmed that Forest’s priority in the forward position is currently Yuri Alberto. He emphasized that while Forest remains aware of Jesus’ availability, the club’s stronger inclination is towards securing Alberto’s services. Given Alberto’s superior goal-scoring record, which outshines Jesus’ by a considerable margin, Forest’s decision to prioritize him makes perfect sense. Alberto’s ability to lead the line and contribute to the team’s offensive output has been a key factor in why the club is pushing for his signature.

However, the situation with Jesus is far from closed. Forest’s interest in the Botafogo forward is still alive, but for the time being, they will continue to pursue a deal for Alberto. If a move for Alberto does go through, it could potentially end Forest’s pursuit of Jesus for this window. In any case, it is clear that Forest are looking to bolster their attacking options with a player who can offer depth and competition for Wood, especially as the club eyes improvements in the second half of the season.

In summary, while Nottingham Forest has maintained interest in both Yuri Alberto and Igor Jesus, it is the former who is now the top priority. The club has been offered the opportunity to sign the highly-rated Corinthians striker, and the potential for a deal seems promising. Alberto’s proven goal-scoring record makes him a perfect fit for Forest’s needs, and with Nuno Espirito Santo eager to strengthen his squad, the deal could become a reality if the terms are right. As for Jesus, his situation remains on the backburner, and Forest’s focus on Alberto means that Jesus may have to wait for another opportunity elsewhere.