And Forest’s Head of Football Development and Talent Management Craig Mulholland believes the young midfielder’s excellent attitude can ensure he maximises his potential and enjoys a long career in the game, as he begins life away from the City Ground.
Perry has left Forest, where he had been since the age of nine and joined Colchester on a three-year contract, for an undisclosed fee.
We’re delighted to confirm the permanent signing of Ben Perry from Nottingham Forest.
The 20-year-old midfielder and former Forest U21 captain joins on a three-year deal after impressing on loan at Northampton last season.
Read more below ⬇️#SignedBlueAndWhite | #ColU
— Colchester United FC (@ColU_Official) July 9, 2025
The 20-year-old first joined Forest’s youth set-up in 2014 and went on to be a part of each of their 2023/24 and 2024/25 Premier League 2 and EFL Trophy campaigns.
Mulholland told the club’s website: “We are delighted that another Forest Academy player has achieved a long-term contract in the EFL following their education here at the club.
“Ben has been here since the age of nine and has an attitude which epitomises our Forest values. This attitude will ensure that Ben makes the most of his talents and has a long career in the game.
“Everyone at Forest wishes Ben the best of luck in this next exciting chapter and he will always be welcome back at the club.”
Colchester United snap up Nottingham Forest midfielder
Perry got a taste of life away from Forest last season when he spent the second half of the campaign on loan at League One outfit Northampton Town.
The Derby-born youngster made a total of 17 appearances for the Cobblers, during his time at Sixfields where he played alongside former U’s favourite, Cameron McGeehan.
After linking up with Northampton, boss Kevin Nolan said Perry could serve in a range of different roles for the team.
Ben Perry has joined Colchester United for an undisclosed fee, bringing the end to an 11-year association with the Academy.
Best of luck in your next chapter, Ben. 🙌
— Nottingham Forest Academy (@NFFCAcademy) July 9, 2025
He told the Northampton Chronicle: “He can do either role in midfield. He can sit, he can go box-to-box and he can play a bit higher.
“Because of his brain and his quality and his work-rate and enthusiasm and tenacity, he can bring something to that role higher up.
"He can play in a number positions for us and be quite comfortable but we have to make sure the new lads are comfortable within the environment and they know their roles and responsibilities and what we’re looking for in and out of possession.”