Nottingham Forest in ‘advanced talks’ over Monaco transfer

Nottingham Forest are in “advanced talks” to sign AS Monaco left-back Ismail Jakobs.

The 23-year-old is said to be “keen” on a move to Forest, with negotiations between clubs “advancing” on a deal for the Senegal international.

Jakobs played 32 times in Ligue 1 last season, setting up two goals. His impressive performances have caught the attention of head coach Steve Cooper, who has made Jakobs his top target for the left-back position.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has provided the latest update on the state of play, tweeting: “Understand Nottingham Forest are now in advanced talks to sign Ismail Jakobs as new left back. Player keen on the move, negotiations advancing on clubs side with AS Monaco to reach an agreement soon.”

According to the Telegraph, he is Forest’s “main target” for the position, with Monza’s Carlos Augusto “also under consideration”.

Born in Germany, Jakobs played for the country of his birth at under-21 level. He is now a full international for Senegal, for whom he qualifies through his father.

The youngster already has experience of playing in the Champions League and Europa League with Monaco, as well as two seasons in one of Europe’s top five leagues.

Nottingham Forest’s Brennan Johnson transfer stance emerges

Nottingham Forest might be willing to sell Brennan Johnson this summer, but only if a club pays ‘at least £50 million’ for the winger, according to reports.

The academy product did well in his first season in the Premier League in 2022/23 after helping the club get promoted to the division the season before. His performances have attracted attention from other clubs.

Forest have already turned down interest from Brentford, and are said to have rejected another offer of £30 million from the Bees this summer.

It was reported earlier this month that Brentford are ready to smash their transfer record to sign Johnson, but they’re not the only club interested.

Aston Villa have also been linked, but the signing of Moussa Diaby, and interest in Jeremy Doku could mean Unai Emery has looked at other targets. Tottenham are also said to be ‘fans’ of the 22-year-old.

Amid the interest, Forest’s position on a possible sale of Johnson has now been revealed by the Telegraph , who report that the winger is ‘likely to be sold if a club pays at least £50 million.

The report says the club are ‘determined’ to avoid breaking Financial Fair Play rules, and a fee of that size would help a lot.

Johnson has missed all of Forest’s pre-season games so far through injury. The Welshman got an ankle problem while on international duty at the end of last season, and is set to be out for ‘a few weeks’.