Nottingham Forest winger Jota Silva is said to be on the radar of Saudi Pro League clubs.
The 25-year-old made the switch to the City Ground 12 months ago from Portuguese outfit Vitoria Guimaraes. His first season in English football proved to be something of a mixed bag, and now the wide man has been linked with a move elsewhere.
According to the Daily Express, Jota is “a target” for a “handful” of Saudi Arabian sides. Although there has not yet been an official offer, a number of teams have reportedly “enquired about the conditions” of a potential deal.
The Portuguese’s admirers in the Middle East might have their work cut out to try to prise him away, however. Jota is understood to be keen to remain with the Reds.
Jota made 36 appearances in all competitions in the Garibaldi during his first year on the banks of the Trent. He was largely restricted to a substitutes’ role as 28 of his outings came from off the bench.
Nevertheless, he still managed to find the net four times for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side. Three of those goals came in the Premier League.
Forest head coach Nuno had made signing wingers a priority last summer, in order to provide cover and competition for Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi. Ramon Sosa arrived at the same time as Jota, but the Paraguayan also struggled for regular minutes as he tried to find his feet in the Premier League.
Like Jota, Sosa has been linked with a summer departure from the City Ground. Brazilian outfit Palmeiras have been credited with an interest in him but the 25-year-old is said to be keen to stay put.
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Out wide is expected to be an area the Reds will look to strengthen now the transfer window is open. Ensuring Nuno has sufficient strength in depth across the pitch is a priority, with the club set to compete in the UEFA Conference League next term as they return to Europe for the first time in three decades.
With that in mind, it is set to be an important summer for Forest. Incomings and outgoings are on the cards as tweaks are made to Nuno’s squad.
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