Nottingham Forest will enter the final week of the summer window with the basis of a strong squad already in place.
The Reds have had a busy couple of weeks on the transfer front, in terms of both incomings and outgoings. But they have some work still to do before the September 1 deadline.
Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo needs options across the pitch to cope with the demands of European football. Some good work has been done to bolster the Portuguese’s squad, but Forest do have a few gaps left to fill.
Although having strength in depth is key for Nuno, he does not want players kicking their heels on the sidelines with little chance of game time. With that in mind, further departures are also expected in the remaining days of the window.
It has the makings of being an important week or so ahead at the City Ground. Below, NottinghamshireLive looks at some of the deals the Reds could look to do before the window closes.
Sign two full-backs
This is one area of the pitch where Forest still look light. They need cover and competition for Ola Aina and Neco Williams.
The potential for the former to miss games when the Africa Cup of Nations takes place midway through the Premier League campaign is an added factor for consideration. Nigeria international Aina is a big player for Nuno’s side.
Sevilla right-back Jose Angel Carmona has emerged as a key target for the Reds. Nigel Doughty Academy graduate Matty Cash has also been linked with a return Trentside, but Aston Villa are said to be unwilling to sell.
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Sign another goalkeeper
A reshuffle between the posts has seen Angus Gunn arrive on a free transfer while Matt Turner and Carlos Miguel have headed out the City Ground exit door. Additionally, Wayne Hennessey has hung up his gloves and turned his hand to coaching at Forest.
Matz Sels will remain as No.1 but adding a third senior stopper could be on the cards. Gunn will provide back-up but Nuno will not want to be left short in this position.
Oversee exits
The Reds have already got through a lot of work in trimming Nuno’s dressing room. Aside from losing Anthony Elanga, they have managed to retain their star players while overseeing the departures of a number of fringe players.
With the summer window deadline looming, the club will no doubt be keen to finish a bit of housekeeping. Finding moves for a few members of Nuno’s squad will be on their to-do list.
David Carmo could reportedly be part of a swap deal for Carmona. The centre-back was not involved against Brentford on the opening weekend, which perhaps offers an indication of where he features (or not) in Nuno’s plans.
Omar Richards was also not part of the match squad, despite Forest’s shortage of full-backs. The former Bayern Munich defender has 12 months remaining on his contract so a move could suit all parties.
Wide man Jota Silva is likely to depart, with Sporting Lisbon keen. Finding new homes for winger Josh Bowler and forward Emmanuel Dennis will also be on the agenda in the final days of the window.
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