Nottingham Forest have submitted a fresh £15 million bid for Feyenoord right‑back Givairo Read, hoping the 20‑year‑old can challenge Ola Aina for the full‑back spot. The club’s latest offer was turned down this week, but manager Oliver Glasner remains convinced the Dutch defender fits the Tricky Trees’ needs.
Why is Read on Forest’s radar?
Read impressed during the 2025‑26 Eredivisie season, making 20 appearances despite a hamstring setback. Former Feyenoord boss Robin van Persie, who oversaw Read’s rise, praised his attitude, physique and tactical sense. Van Persie told 1908 on 13 May 2025 that the youngster’s drive “has the beauty of staying the same person as he was two years ago.” Those comments echo in Forest’s scouting reports, which highlight Read’s willingness to attack and his defensive reliability.
How does Read stack up statistically?
Fotmob’s data on 10 July shows the Dutch right‑back averaged 0.10 goals, 0.12 xG, 1.53 shots, 0.29 assists and 0.29 big chances created per 90 minutes. He also logged 1.24 successful dribbles, 4.40 touches inside the opposition box and 1.15 interceptions. Those numbers suggest a player comfortable pushing forward while still contributing defensively – a profile Glasner values as Forest look to add depth at full‑back.
What does this mean for Forest’s current campaign?
Forest sit 16th in the Premier League with 44 points from 38 games, recent form DLDWW, and a 1‑1 draw with Bournemouth on 24 May 2026. Adding a player like Read could provide the width and competition needed to improve the side’s defensive record, which currently stands at 51 conceded. The club remains 41 points behind leaders Arsenal, so any upgrade must translate quickly into points.
Can the deal be closed?
The bid’s rejection means negotiations will continue. Glasner’s team is expected to raise the offer or add performance‑related clauses to satisfy Feyenoord. If Forest secure Read before the winter window, he could debut in the upcoming away fixture at Hull City on 2 December 2026, offering a fresh option as the Tricky Trees aim to climb out of the relegation zone.
What’s the broader transfer picture?
Forest have already spent on midfield reinforcements this summer, but the right‑back market remains thin. Securing a player praised by a former Premier League champion like van Persie adds credibility to the club’s recruitment strategy. Should the £15 million bid finally be accepted, Forest would be among the few Premier League sides to sign a Dutch defender directly from Feyenoord this season.
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