Nottingham Forest have opened talks with Bologna for Colombian defender Jhon Lucumi and Argentine winger Santiago Castro, hoping to fund the moves with the £116 million cash inflow from Elliot Anderson’s Manchester City transfer. The club currently sit 16th in the Premier League, 44 pts from 38 games, recent form DLDWW.

Which players are on Forest’s radar?

The Italian daily Il Resto Del Carlino reports that Forest are keen on both Lucumi and Castro. Lucumi’s contract runs to 2027, and Bologna appear ready to cash in, despite interest from Juventus. The defender featured regularly in Serie A last season, and his departure could bring a tidy sum. Castro, who notched seven goals and three assists in 35 Serie A outings, would add pace to the City Ground attack. A combined package is estimated at over €60 million (£51.66 million).

How does the Anderson sale affect the budget?

Elliot Anderson’s imminent £116 million move to Manchester City would be the biggest sale in Forest’s recent history. That windfall gives manager Vitor Pereira a rare opportunity to splurge on new talent without dipping into the club’s limited wage budget. The cash could also cover the €60 million tag for the Bologna duo, leaving room for ancillary fees or add‑ons.

What does this mean for Forest’s season outlook?

Forest’s current league standing – 16th with 44 points, 48 goals scored and 51 conceded – shows a side struggling to find consistency. Their last result, a 1‑1 draw with Bournemouth on 24 May 2026, left them hovering just above the relegation zone. Adding a solid centre‑back and a creative winger could tighten the defence and boost the attacking threat, potentially turning the recent DLDWW run into a more positive spell.

When could the deals be finalised?

Negotiations are reportedly at an early stage, with both Bologna and Forest looking to re‑ignite the relationship that produced Dan Ndoye’s summer arrival last year. If all parties agree, the transfers could be completed before the summer window closes on 31 August, giving the new signings time to integrate during pre‑season.

What other clubs are watching?

Juventus have also shown interest in Lucumi, meaning Forest may need to act quickly to secure a deal. Meanwhile, Everton are busy closing on Middlesbrough midfielder Hayden Hackney for £25 million, showing that the market remains active across the Premier League and Championship.

The potential €60 million double signing, funded by Anderson’s £116 million exit, could reshape Forest’s squad ahead of a crucial second half of the campaign.