NafisaIgor Jesus’ transfer to Nottingham Forest is edging closer with each passing hour, with fresh reports from Brazil indicating that a significant barrier has been cleared.
Forest have been deep in negotiations to bring in Jesus since news emerged late Thursday night, helped by Evangelos Marinakis’ strong ties with John Textor, the owner of Botafogo.
Botafogo supporters were dismayed by the Jesus development, but they’ll have the chance to watch their top forward a bit longer, as part of the agreement involves him remaining at Botafogo for the Club World Cup.
Discussions have carried on since Thursday to provide Nuno Espírito Santo with a much-needed extra forward, with the latest news on the Jesus pursuit appearing very encouraging for Reds supporters.
Nottingham Forest nearing Igor Jesus agreement with Botafogo:
In the midst of growing anticipation, John Textor was bracing for more offers for Jesus, regardless of Forest’s position in the talks. Yet, Marinakis appeared to be firmly in front for the 24-year-old’s signature.
That chase may soon be wrapping up, as per GE Globo, Forest and Botafogo have settled on a fee to advance the prospective transfer.
The outlet reported: “Igor Jesus is about to leave Botafogo for Nottingham Forest. The clubs have already reached an understanding regarding the amount, and the negotiation is still a matter of bureaucratic details to be concluded. The current phase is contractual discussions.
“Nottingham Forest made a proposal of 20 million euros (just over R$130 million) and bonuses if targets are met.”
After Liam Delap turned down Forest, Marinakis has succeeded in identifying a striker for just £16.8 million, notably under the £30 million release clause in Delap’s Ipswich contract.
Should the contractual negotiations go through, Forest would gain more than just a talented player in Igor Jesus.
Incoming Nottingham Forest striker Igor Jesus brings a winning mentality:
Jesus netted on his debut for Brazil against Chile in October, but it’s his record at club level with Botafogo that truly stands out.
In 2024, Botafogo secured their first Brazilian Serie A championship since 1995, topping Palmeiras to claim the title in a season where Jesus notched eight goal involvements across 22 appearances.
Arguably more impressive was their Copa Libertadores victory, as they clinched South America’s premier club competition for the first time ever in 2024, despite playing most of the final with ten men.
In a short stint at the club, Jesus has already experienced both domestic and continental glory—credentials that could prove immensely valuable for Forest as they aim to capture trophies of their own.
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