Nottingham Forest’s Danilo is “closing in” on a €25 million (£21m) move to French side Olympique Lyon, according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano. The deal is all but done, with just a “final green light needed” from Forest to sanction his summer departure.
Nottingham Forest’s Danilo ‘Closing In’ on £21 Million Move to Olympique Lyon
What We Know So Far
According to The Telegraph, the “high ceiling” midfielder’s move to Lyon will only be sanctioned once Forest have strengthened their squad ahead of a first European campaign in 30 years. The Tricky Trees are currently working on a huge triple transfer deal with Brazilian side Botafogo, which would see striker Igor Jesus, left-back Cuibano, and centre-half Jair Cunha all move to the City Ground.
Forest have reportedly reached a verbal agreement to sign the Brazilian trio, and it is believed that Danilo’s move to Lyon will be sanctioned as soon as the Botafogo deal is over the line. The 24-year-old would be the first departure of what promises to be a hectic summer for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
Olympique Lyon has become a popular destination for Forest players, with the club selling Moussa Niakhaté and Orel Mangala to the French side for a combined £40 million last summer. Lyon are owned by American businessman John Textor, who also owns Botafogo, and has built a strong relationship with the Midlands side.
Why Are Forest Open to Selling Danilo?
Danilo joined Forest from Palmeiras in January 2023 for a reported £16 million and has made 62 appearances for the Tricky Trees in all competitions. After becoming a key player in his first full season at the club, making 34 appearances, the 24-year-old suffered a horrific leg injury in the opening game of last season.
Read More: Nottingham Forest Return to Europe: Playoffs, Potential Opponents
The Brazilian only returned from injury in February, by which point the impressive performances of Elliot Anderson, Ryan Yates and, Nicolas Dominguez in midfield had played a huge role in Forest’s remarkable journey from relegation candidates to European hopefuls. Danilo therefore found himself far down the pecking order, and was limited to just eight Premier League appearances all season, five of them starts.
Nuno’s side are well stocked in midfield, with Ibrahim Sangaré also preferred to the Brazilian, so it makes sense for all parties that the 24-year-old moves on to play regular first-team football.
Which Other Players Could Leave Forest This Summer?
According to Sky Sports, Forest will need to fight off interest in their star players, including Morgan Gibbs-White, who is one of a number of Manchester City targets to replace the outgoing Kevin De Bruyne. Murillo, Anthony Elanga, and Callum Hudson-Odoi are all expected to receive significant interest from elsewhere, with the Tricky Trees hopeful that the promise of European football will keep them at the City Ground.
Wingers Ramon Sosa and Jota Silva, both of whom largely struggled to get a game this season, could also be sold as Nuno aims for a significant summer overhaul. Cult hero Harry Toffolo looks set to leave the City Ground as a free agent after not being offered a contract extension.
