Nottingham Forest fans will love what Gian Piero Gasperini has said about top target Jan Ziolkowski
Nottingham Forest fans should be excited about the potential signing of Jan Ziolkowski after what top manager Gian Piero Gasperini said about him.
Forest are aiming to bolster their centre-back options this summer after a disappointing 2025-26 campaign from a defensive standpoint.
Ziolkowski has emerged onto their radar amid rumours that he could push to leave Roma due to a lack of playing time.
The capital club may look to cash in on his services, considering they are under pressure to raise funds before 30 June so they comply with UEFA's financial rules.
New reports have claimed that the Reds are "crazy" about the 21-year-old, with previous quotes from Roma boss Gasperini proving exactly why he would be a smart signing.
Ziolkowski struggled for game time last term, mainly due to being stuck behind more experienced defenders as Roma qualified for the Champions League.
He could well be on his way to the City Ground soon, and high praise from Gasperini is all Forest fans should need to know he could be a hit.
What has Gian Piero Gasperini said about Jan Ziolkowski?
Ziolkowski started just five Serie A games and three Europa League matches for Roma last term, but was among the top performers for duels won and defensive contributions per 90 in both competitions.
Reports have claimed that Forest will have to splash out around £15m for his services this summer, with Nicolo Savona believed to be a target for Roma too.
Sources have told Football Insider that Forest are considering selling Savona, and Ziolkowski would surely be a better option in Vitor Pereira's squad for next season.
Gasperini spoke highly of the Polish international last October, saying: "Ziolkowski made an impression on me. I’ve seen him in training and I know he’s a promising player. He has good qualities."
He then went on to insist that he can see Ziolkowski having a bright future in the game after he shone against Juventus in December, saying: "He’s a player with excellent prospects, and in my opinion, he played well. He can make mistakes like anyone else, but I think he has tremendous potential."
Forest fans should clearly be pleased that their club is targeting such a bright talent, as he could become a key man in their backline for years to come.
Jan Urban has also heaped praise on Ziolkowski
Ziolkowski's move to Roma saw Poland boss Urban hand him a senior international debut in October, as he helped them keep a clean sheet against New Zealand.
He has since picked up another two caps for his country, with the Poland boss admitting that he could look to build his team around the centre-back in the years to come.
Back in January, Urban said: "I’d like Ziolkowski to be a mainstay of the national team for years to come. After all, it’s just the way things go - older players eventually end their time with the national team, and someone has to replace them. The fact that a few young, promising, and interesting players have emerged recently can only make us all happy.
"In reality, Jan is just beginning his journey at Roma. We’re all watching him, we’re all keeping an eye on his play, and of course we hope he stays at this level, because Roma is a great club, and being on a team like that is certainly a great honour for every player who’s there”