It was late in the day, but Nottingham Forest finally got one of their top summer targets over the line with minutes to spare on transfer deadline day.
To start the day off, Forest signed John Victor to bolster the goalkeeping department, and defender Cuiabano also checked in to provide cover at left-back.
A late move for Oleksandr Zinchenko to Forest wasn’t on the bingo card of any supporters, but the Ukrainian also checked in before the deadline.
Perhaps the most exciting addition for Nuno Espirito Santo, however, was the arrival of Dilane Bakwa and after checking in at Forest, he’s been speaking for the very first time.
Dilane Bakwa in action for Strasbourg against Nice.
Photo by Sathire Kelpa/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images
Dilane Bakwa speaks for the first time as a Nottingham Forest player
Bakwa has signed for Forest from Strasbourg on a contract for five years and has cost close to £35 million.
He will likely provide competition with Omari Hutchinson for a place on the right flank, with Dan Ndoye and Callum Hudson-Odoi to compete for a place on the right.
After checking in at Forest, Bakwa has spoken for the very first time and he’s ecstatic to be at the City Ground.
He told the club’s official website: “I am so happy to have signed for this legendary club. I am grateful the club and the owner have given me this opportunity. The ambitions of everyone here motivate me, and I didn’t hesitate once I heard there was interest.
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“I can’t wait to get started, but most importantly, I want to contribute to the team with goals and assists, and I will give my all for this club every time I am on the pitch.”
Bakwa can star at the City Ground
Although this feels like another sizeable outlay, there is real excitement about the arrival of Bakwa at Forest.
The tricky France youth international has a physical presence that the club’s other wingers perhaps don’t possess and it’s exciting to see what he can do.
Last season, Bakwa scored six goals and claimed nine assists as Strasbourg qualified for the UEFA Conference League under ex-Derby boss Liam Rosenior.
Now, the winger will hope to thrive in the Premier League and it will be fascinating to see what role he plays on Trentside.