Striker Igor Jesus is eager to link up with Nottingham Forest as soon as he can as he prepares to complete a “dream” move.
The Reds have been working on a triple deal for Jesus and Botafogo teammates Jair Cunha and Cuiabano. Various reports have suggested the fee involved for the trio is in the region of €34-40 million (£29-33m).
Jesus played the full 90 minutes on Wednesday night as Botafogo beat Ceara 3-2 in Brazil’s Serie A. He had confirmed beforehand that it would be his last appearance at the club’s home stadium, and after the match he discussed his anticipated switch to the City Ground.
“I'm happy with everything I've done at this club,” the 24-year-old told ESPN Brazil. “It's been a wonderful journey. It was a short time, but it was a success.
“I'm very happy that the fans have recognized me and are celebrating with me. I hope to have a great World Cup, help the club that I love so much and I hope to come back one day to continue my story here.
“'I really like this club, it's a club that welcomed me with great affection. The decision I made is yet another dream I have of playing in a major league. The opportunity to play in a major championship like the Premier League comes up, and I can't waste it because we don't know when another opportunity will come along.
“I achieved the goals I had here at Botafogo, winning the Libertadores and the Brazilian Championship, two very important championships. Now I hope to continue my journey in this new challenge in my life. Now I have the opportunity to play for Nottingham and I hope to have a great championship there.”
It has been reported Jesus will pen a five-year deal with the Reds when he completes his switch after the conclusion of the Club World Cup. The forward is confident he can adapt to English football.
''I think I have a bit of the characteristics of English football: contact and speed,” he added. “I will do well there, especially because I am prepared for this great challenge.
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“We know it is a new championship, of course it is different to play in the Premier League. The game should be faster. I want to get there soon to adapt as quickly as possible to have a great performance there too.”
Prior to Wednesday’s match, Jesus had posted a message on Instagram announcing his departure. He had said: “Today I will play my last match at the Nilton Santos Stadium, where I was very happy and always tried to do my best! I want to thank everyone for always supporting me and believing in me. I’m not saying goodbye I’m saying see you later, I hope to one day return to this club that has become a part of my family and that I love so much!”
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