‘Brighton plot Cuiabano hijack amid Nottingham Forest development’
Nottingham Forest’s latest transfer target is set to be hijacked by Premier League rivals Brighton.
Nuno Espirito Santo is looking to strengthen his squad ahead the club’s debut in the Europa Conference League next season.
Forest were one of the surprise packages in the Premier League under Santo, from relegation contenders previously to top five challengers.
However, there dip in form towards the end of the season signalled the urgent need for further quality and squad depth.
Transfer developments at the City Ground this summer though have so far been about outgoings with Anthony Elanga among those linked with a move away.
Seagulls to swoop for Forest target
Brighton are also facing the prospect of a tough transfer window themselves with up to four first team stars potentially leaving the Amex.
Striker Joao Pedro already looks set to leave to join rivals Chelsea after a £60million deal was agreed between the club’s.
The Seagulls now want to sign Forest target Cuiabano from Botafogo after the Brazilian looked likely to move to the East Midlands.
The Telegraph (29 June) report that the “proposed signing of left-back Cuiabano is now in doubt.”
They also state Cuiabano has more admirers from around Europe who could also look to make an offer.
Full-back Neco Williams though looks set to stay at the City Ground with a new contract to be confirmed soon for the Welshman.
Forest depth key to another strong campaign
Football Insider verdict
Both Forest and Brighton are looking to take the next step up the Premier League table next season.
The signing of 22-year-old Cuiabano would add further pace and energy down the left-flank.
Cuiabano is an exciting young prospect, which would definitely fit into the model Brighton work in.
| Appearances | 55 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 5 |
With Pervis Estupinian having asked to leave Brighton, Fabian Hurzeler may require a new left-back.
For Forest the signing would add extra depth to their squad ahead of what will be a more physically challenging campaign for them next season due to the demands of European football.
Keeping hold of Williams is good business by the club as the 24-year-old impressed with his defensive and offensive work last season.
The club are also interested in Jordan Henderson, whose experience could aid Forest next season.
Santo only wants to progress and under Evangelos Marinakis they have an ambitious owner determined to make sure they succeed.