With all the focus on the forward positions after Anthony Elanga’s exit was agreed, Nottingham Forest have missed out on a perfect defensive target to a Premier League rival.
Before the Elanga deal progressed, it was revealed that Nuno Espírito Santo wanted to strengthen four positions in the summer, with a left-back one of the priorities.
With Neco Williams signing a new Forest contract, the addition only needs to be a rotation option, but finding a left-back has become crucial given that Harry Toffolo and Alex Moreno have both departed.
One option that looked particularly tempting has just been picked up, though, and looks to possess the attributes that might make Forest regret not making a move.
Reinildo in action for Atletico Madrid during the Copa del Rey semi-final clash with FC Barcelona
Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images
Nottingham Forest target Reinildo signs for Sunderland
In the hunt for defensive reinforcements, Forest showed interest in Reinildo, in what looked to be a clever option given his European experience and the fact that he was available on a free transfer from Atletico Madrid.
However, talk surrounding the Mozambique international went quiet until it was revealed that Sunderland had won the Reinildo race ahead of Forest and Leeds United.
Now, in his first interview with Sunderland’s media team, the 31-year-old has disclosed a long-term ambition to play in the Premier League that Forest could’ve capitalised on.
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He said: “It is a dream come true because it has always been my ambition to play in the Premier League – and I can’t wait to play for a historic club like Sunderland.
I’m excited to meet the team, to fight, and to give everything for the Club. I want to help, to give power to my teammates, and transmit my experience in the dressing room.”
His talk of playing for a “historic club” could’ve easily been about Forest, while his drive to offer his experience in the Sunderland dressing room would’ve been equally valuable to the Forest squad.
Nottingham Forest could’ve made history with Reinildo signing
Reinildo has made 31 appearances in UEFA competitions, showing a level of experience that would’ve been enough to make him the perfect free transfer at left back.
Another aspect that would’ve made him perfect for Espírito Santo is his clear drive for success, potentially fuelled by representing Mozambique at the highest level of football.
Reinildo will become the first footballer from Mozambique to play in the Premier League when he makes his Sunderland debut. On this, he said: “I am going to become the first Mozambican player, so this isn’t something that happens every single day.
“The journey to Europe was very hard, very difficult, but I can pass this message onto the young players: everything is possible, but you need to have a focus.”
His ability and experience were reason enough to bring Reinildo to the City Ground, but his extra motivation of representing Mozambique could make him a crucial driving force for Sunderland’s survival bid.