Nottingham Forest are in the race to sign Bayer Leverkusen winger Ernest Poku, with the 22-year-old Dutchman reportedly set for a move to the Premier League. The Reds, who finished 16th last season with 44 points (11W-11D-16L), are eyeing a €25m deal despite Leverkusen only paying €10m for him last year.
Why is Poku leaving Leverkusen?
Poku, who scored five goals and provided five assists in the Bundesliga last season, has grown frustrated with his limited game time. Despite being a key squad player, he started just twice in the league and is now looking for regular first-team football. Leverkusen are open to selling him for €25m, provided they can find a suitable replacement.
What does this mean for Nottingham Forest?
Forest, who recently sold Elliot Anderson for a significant fee, have the funds to make a big-money move. Poku’s pace and creativity could provide a much-needed boost to their attack, which scored 48 goals last season but conceded 51. With their recent form reading DLDWW, including a 3-0 win over Blackburn on July 22, 2026, Forest are looking to strengthen ahead of their next fixture against Bayer Leverkusen on August 12, 2026.
Who else is interested?
Sunderland, newly promoted to the Premier League, are also keen on Poku. The Black Cats have shown no fear in spending since their return to the top flight and see Poku as a player who could make an immediate impact. With Leverkusen ready to sell, both Forest and Sunderland could face a battle to secure his signature before the German club’s training camp on August 1, 2026.
