Nottingham Forest’s head coach, Nuno Espirito Santo, says the club’s “priority” in the final weeks of the transfer market is to keep its important players.
The Portuguese think the Reds already have the foundation of a strong squad from previous season. Carlos Miguel, Eric da Silva Moreira, Nikola Milenkovic, Elliot Anderson, and Jota Silva have all joined, while Marko Stamenic will be loaned out to Olympiacos.
Several portions of the pitch still need to be strengthened before the August 30 deadline. But just as crucial to Nuno is that the team keep its valuable assets.
Murillo, Morgan Gibbs-White, Callum Hudson-Odoi, and Neco Williams are among the players linked with moves this summer. Keeping hold of them will be critical as Forest attempt to advance in the Premier League in 2024/25.
“All of the players here from last season are really essential to us. “I believe the core of the squad can help us improve,” Nuno stated following Friday night’s 0-0 friendly draw with Villarreal.
“The marketplace is open. The transfer window is open. It will be open till the end of the month. What is our priority? Let’s keep everyone who is here.
The Reds manager fielded a strong XI at the City Ground, possibly indicating the lineup he intends to play Bournemouth on the season’s opening day. Matz Sels’ inclusion means that he will start in goal against the Cherries.
After arriving in January, the Belgian helped to secure survival. Another goalkeeper is still on the shopping list, with Aaron Ramsdale and Sam Johnstone among candidates on the club’s radar, but Nuno claims he already knows who his number one is.
When asked if he knew who will be first choice between the posts this season, Nuno replied, “Yes, I do. There are only two weeks to go. Carlos is performing well. Matt Turner is performing well. These are judgments we must make. Nobody is promised a spot on the squad, and this is typical.
