Nottingham Forest leapfrog Brentford, Chelsea in race to sign Braga star Roger Fernandes
Nottingham Forest have taken a step ahead of Brentford and Chelsea in the race to sign Braga wonderkid Roger Fernandes.
The Tricky Trees have drastically overhauled Nuno Espirito Santo’s attacking options this summer.
Anthony Elanga departed to join Newcastle early in the window, and it appeared that Morgan Gibbs-White would be on his way to Tottenham before that deal was shut down by claims that knowledge of his release clause had found its way to the North London side illegally.
Nottingham Forest responded by signing Omari Hutchinson, Dan Ndoye, Arnaud Kalimuendo, and James McAtee, arming Nuno with significant offensive firepower.
However, the Midlands side are not content with the options available, particularly after they were put to the sword in a 3-0 loss to West Ham on 31 August.
Nottingham Forest pushing to sign Roger Fernandes after failed Dodi Lukebakio deal
Nuno’s side had been keen to add another winger before the window shut and were looking at Sevilla winger Dodi Lukebakio.
The Belgian winger scored 11 times in 39 appearances for the Spanish side last term, but his prospective move to the City Ground has fallen flat.
Instead, Forest are now working to sign Fernandes from Braga in a late deal, according to Sacha Tavolieri on X.
The journalist reports that talks are now “advanced” between the two clubs.
Chelsea and Brentford have shown an interest in Fernandes prior to Deadline Day, but Forest appear set to beat both to the punch.
Roger Fernandes versatility and potential make for an exciting option
Football Insider Verdict
The Portugal Under-21 international has been on the radar for several Premier League clubs this summer, and for good reason.
The young winger has already established himself as one of his country’s most exciting talents.
Despite being just 19 years old, Fernandes has already made 91 appearances for Braga and shone in the Europa League last season.
The left-footed winger is a natural on the right and thrives at cutting inside and driving at his man, but is also equally comfortable on the left wing.
Such is his versatility that Carlos Carhalhal and Carlos Vicens, his two most recent managers, have been comfortable using Fernandes in the centre of midfield, and even as a left-back on a few occasions.