Nottingham Forest join race to sign “extraordinary” £76k-p/w Real Madrid ace

Nottingham Forest have now joined the race to sign an “extraordinary” Real Madrid player, who is tempted by a move to the Premier League.

Forest still keen to strengthen despite West Ham victory

Forest defeated West Ham United 2-1 at the London Stadium on Tuesday night, in what could prove to be a relegation six-pointer, and there is now much more breathing room near the bottom of the Premier League table, having moved seven points clear of Nuno’s side.

Sean Dyche praised his side for the way in which they responded to going a goal down in the first half, saying: “Well, [I’m] pleased obviously. Pleased with the mentality of the players.

“Awkward game for both sides and a lot of noise around the game. To go 1-0 down and stay calm and deliver a second half that can win the game is very pleasing.”

However, the Tricky Trees aren’t out of the woods just yet, as they remain in 17th place, which means it remains important to improve the squad this month, and they have now set their sights on a Real Madrid player.

That is according to a report from TEAMtalk, which reveals Nottingham Forest have joined the race to sign Andriy Lunin, with it possible the Spanish side could be willing to sanction a move in 2026, given that the goalkeeper has only received little game time.

The race for Lunin’s signature is heating up, with Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton & Hove Albion also keen, which could be music to the Ukrainian’s ears, given that he is really tempted to move to the Premier League.

The Madrid ace’s entourage have already started to work on an exit from the Santiago Bernabéu, and there are plenty of signs he could be a success at the City Ground.

Dream Kalimuendo replacement: Nottingham Forest open talks to sign £40m star

Nottingham Forest have already identified a replacement for the outgoing Arnaud Kalimuendo this January.

ByEthan Lamb "Extraordinary" Lunin is Champions League proven

Although the 26-year-old has been unable to establish himself as Madrid’s first-choice option between the sticks, he has proven himself at the very highest level in the past, making eight appearances in the 2023-24 Champions League, with his side going on to win the competition.

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After impressing against RB Leipzig in the round of 16 that year, the £76k-a-week shot-stopper was singled out for very high praise by CBS Sports’ Nico Cantor.

Forest may not need to bring in a new goalkeeper immediately, given that they already have Matz Sels, who won the Premier League Golden Glove award last season.

However, considering Sels is now 33-years-old, it is about time Dyche started to think about bringing in a long-term replacement, and Lunin, who needs to be playing regular football at this stage of his career, could be an exciting option.