NafisaStriker Igor Jesus is keen to join up with Nottingham Forest as quickly as possible as he gets ready to finalise a “dream” transfer.
The Reds have been negotiating a triple signing for Jesus and Botafogo teammates Jair Cunha and Cuiabano. Several outlets have claimed the total fee for the trio is in the range of €34-40 million (£29-33m).
Jesus featured for the full match on Wednesday evening as Botafogo edged Ceara 3-2 in Brazil’s Serie A. He had already confirmed it would be his final outing at the club’s home ground, and following the game he spoke about his expected move to the City Ground.
“I’m happy with everything I’ve done at this club,” the 24-year-old told ESPN Brazil. “It’s been a wonderful journey. It was a short time, but it was a success.
“I’m very happy that the fans have recognized me and are celebrating with me. I hope to have a great World Cup, help the club that I love so much and I hope to come back one day to continue my story here.
“’I really like this club, it’s a club that welcomed me with great affection. The decision I made is yet another dream I have of playing in a major league. The opportunity to play in a major championship like the Premier League comes up, and I can’t waste it because we don’t know when another opportunity will come along.
“I achieved the goals I had here at Botafogo, winning the Libertadores and the Brazilian Championship, two very important championships. Now I hope to continue my journey in this new challenge in my life. Now I have the opportunity to play for Nottingham and I hope to have a great championship there.”
Reports suggest Jesus will sign a five-year contract with the Reds once the Club World Cup wraps up. The attacker is optimistic he can settle into English football.
”I think I have a bit of the characteristics of English football: contact and speed,” he added. “I will do well there, especially because I am prepared for this great challenge.
“We know it is a new championship, of course it is different to play in the Premier League. The game should be faster. I want to get there soon to adapt as quickly as possible to have a great performance there too.”
Before Wednesday’s fixture, Jesus shared a message on Instagram confirming his exit. He had written: “Today I will play my last match at the Nilton Santos Stadium, where I was very happy and always tried to do my best! I want to thank everyone for always supporting me and believing in me. I’m not saying goodbye I’m saying see you later, I hope to one day return to this club that has become a part of my family and that I love so much!”
Nafisa
