Timothy Weah and Samuel Mbangula are reportedly on high alert amid potential moves to Nottingham Forest.
The Reds have been credited with an interest in the Juventus duo and talks are said to have been progressing regarding a double swoop. The pair are currently in America for the Club World Cup, but it remains to be seen how long they stay out there.
According to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Weah and Mbangula trained with their teammates yesterday (Tuesday) ahead of Thursday’s clash with Manchester City. However, they have been told they could leave their base in Florida “at any moment” if an agreement is reached with Forest.
The double deal is said to be “advancing at full speed”. The Reds are reportedly prepared to pay a combined €25 million (£21m) for the two players.
TuttoSport add Weah and Mbangula are simply waiting for their deals “to be finalised”. American Weah reportedly “still needs to be convinced” about heading to the City Ground, but Mbangula views linking up with Nuno Espirito Santo’s squad as a “potential opportunity” amid a lack of minutes for Juve.
The Italian giants are said to have initially wanted €30m (£25m) for the duo before a compromise was reached. Forest are reportedly ready to “guarantee immediate payment” and the plan is to conclude the transfers by the end of this month.
The versatility of Weah, in particular, is sure to appeal to Reds head coach Nuno. The Portuguese favours players who can operate in a number of positions.
Weah can play on either flank as a winger, wing-back or full-back. The 25-year-old USA international joined Juventus from Lille two years ago.
Mbangula is primarily a left-winger. The 21-year-old joined Juve as a youngster after also spending part of his youth career with Club Brugge and Anderlecht. He has represented Belgium at various age groups although is yet to make his senior debut for his country.
Strengthening out wide is a priority for Forest this summer. The Reds need to ensure Nuno has sufficient strength in depth to cope with next season’s European campaign as he prepares to lead the club into the UEFA Conference League.
Forest have already had to fend off interest from Newcastle United in Anthony Elanga and fellow winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has also been the subject of speculation. However, the Reds are eager to keep the core of their squad together as they aim to continue on an upward curve in 2025/26.
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