Nottingham Forest
Nottingham Forest have moved swiftly to secure a trial for one of Africa’s most highly rated teenage talents after Chelsea decided not to proceed.
Africafoot report exclusively that Guinea U17 international Amara Keïta has now travelled to England to begin a trial.
Amara Keïta, captain of Guinea’s national schoolboy side and a standout performer at the World Schools Cup, has attracted interest from clubs across Europe.
Chelsea trial ends without formal offer
Chelsea had been leading the race for the 17‑year‑old and invited him to London for an extended trial, during which he featured regularly for their youth sides.
His attitude, professionalism, and work rate impressed staff. Despite positive internal feedback, Chelsea ultimately decided not to submit a formal offer.
Once Chelsea stepped aside, Keïta’s representatives acted quickly, with Nottingham Forest emerging as the most concrete option.
The club had already expressed interest and, following fresh discussions with Forest’s hierarchy, an agreement was reached for a two-week trial at the City Ground.
Despite interest from clubs in France and Spain, Keïta opted to remain in England, continuing his adaptation both on and off the pitch.
Player’s camp reacts to Chelsea exit
A source close to the player’s camp confirmed the situation, stressing that Keïta “gave everything” during his Chelsea trial. Now he is fully focused on proving himself at Nottingham Forest.
“Amara Keïta has completed his trial at Chelsea,” the source said.
“While it wasn’t always easy, he gave his all. However, the club hasn’t made an offer. We now have an important tournament in two weeks, for which we are actively preparing him.
“He is also progressing well in adapting, particularly with his language skills, which have improved significantly.
“Currently, he is fully focused on the Nottingham Forest project. We hope everything goes well. Other options exist as well, but we remain focused on what is concrete at the moment.”
Why Keïta is one of Africa’s most watched teenagers
Keïta’s rise has been rapid. His performances for Guinea at youth level, marked by pace, direct dribbling and a fearless attacking style, have drawn scouts from across Europe and Africa.
Nottingham Forest now have the chance to secure a player widely viewed as one of West Africa’s most promising forwards.
The next two weeks could prove decisive. If Keïta impresses, Nottingham Forest may look to secure one of the most exciting young forwards emerging from West Africa.
If Keïta impresses, Nottingham Forest could move to secure one of the most intriguing prospects of his generation.
🇮🇹 Lorenzo Lucca | “No one could stand him”
➡️ Italian criticism going over the top
✂️ Nottingham Forest loanee even targeted for using a different hairdresser to other players…https://t.co/tOTVIKCm5p #nffc
— Sport Witness (@Sport_Witness) March 10, 2026