Nottingham Forest have Europa Conference League football to look forward to next term and are now progressing in their attempts to bring a highly-rated forward to the City Ground.
Nottingham Forest transfer targets as they prepare for Europe
It wasn't to be for Nottingham Forest in their pursuit of Champions League football, though a place in Europe's third-tier continental tournament could offer a realistic prospect of silverware next season.
West Ham United and Chelsea's previous exploits in the Europa Conference League will offer Nuno Espirito Santo all the encouragement he needs, but the Portuguese boss knows signings will be necessary to balance their trophy bid with domestic endeavours.
Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo is seen before the match
According to reports, Nottingham Forest are interested in a permanent deal for Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah, though there could also be a possibility of a loan agreement in the eyes of former scout Mick Brown.
Manchester City's Matheus Nunes is a surprise target for the Tricky Trees, lending credence to the notion that they will go all out this summer following an impressive Premier League campaign.
Intriguingly, Espirito Santo stopped short of confirming he would be in charge next term after his side missed out on Champions League qualification, stating: "We are in good place and now it's time to reflect and focus on the future. This is not a moment to speak about me. It's about the club."
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They're already thinking about the summer transfer window.
Either way, there is plenty to be positive about on reflection. Nottingham Forest have shown they are a force that can compete with the best after conducting a mass overhaul across the last couple of years in the East Midlands.
Sparing no expense, the Tricky Trees are now advancing in their pursuit to sign a talented forward who has likened himself to Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr.
Nottingham Forest in advanced Igor Jesus talks after £18.5m offer
Per Fogao Net, Nottingham Forest have made an offer to sign Botafogo forward Igor Jesus for £18.5 million and talks are now believed to have progressed to an advanced stage.
Botafogo's Igor Jesus celebrates scoring their second goal
Negotiations between all parties are moving along nicely, leaving the final decision down to the Brazil international, who has previously pointed out similarities between himself and countryman Vinicius Jr.
Igor Jesus statistics in 2025 - Serie A (Fotmob)
Shots
Shots on target
Completed dribbles
Dribble success
Chances created
Duels won
Enjoying a bright start to the year, Jesus has netted seven goals and laid on a solitary assist in 23 appearances across all competitions for Brazil's reigning top-flight champions.
Chris Wood has been a talismanic figure at the City Ground of late, though his age may work against him moving forward and securing an alternative option would make sense to bolster squad depth.
Now, it remains to be seen if Nottingham Forest can push a deal over the line as they look to build on an impressive campaign by keeping pace with contenders for European football in 2025/26.