da imperador bet: Nottingham Forest have a crucial couple of weeks ahead of them, whether that be with games on the pitch or the business that needs to be conducted off the pitch.
da aposte e ganhe: The Reds have the chance to secure automatic qualification to the next round of the Europa League, whilst having numerous key Premier League matches to contend with.
However, with the transfer window still open, Sean Dyche has the chance to work closely with the hierarchy to land numerous targets to help bolster the squad in key areas.
With a little over a week left in the window, the Reds have yet to make a single senior addition, but it’s evident that, given the current league standing, further reinforcements are needed.
The manager and the fans could finally see some activity at the City Ground over the coming days, with numerous players emerging as key targets this week.
Nottingham Forest in talks to land £12m Serie A star
Forest have been hunting for added reinforcements in recent weeks, but up until now, their efforts have been unsuccessful, but that could all be about to change.
Dyche’s men have been closely monitoring a move for Napoli striker Lorenzo Lucca, even having a loan deal with an option to buy accepted by the Serie A giants.
However, a move has yet to be completed, but it appears to be moving quickly, with the Italian international seemingly now wanting a move to join the Reds this month.
The 25-year-old may not be the only arrival from Naples this window, with left-back Mathias Olivera another name that continues to be linked with a move to the East Midlands.
According to reports on the continent, via Sport Witness, Dyche’s side have already had an offer of around £12m rejected for the Uruguayan international during the current window.
However, it’s also reported that talks remain ongoing between the two clubs over a permanent deal to land the 28-year-old before the February 2nd deadline.
It’s further been claimed that the player has already handed in a transfer request in an attempt to secure a move to the Premier League this winter.
Why Olivera would be perfect for Lucca at Nottingham Forest
Over the course of the last week, Forest have been constantly pursuing a deal to secure the signature of Napoli forward Lucca, but such a deal hasn’t been the most popular with the fanbase.
The 25-year-old has only netted one Serie A goal in 2025/26, but his form prior to his move to Naples showcases the quality that he does possess within the final third.
The Italian managed to net 12 times for Udinese last campaign, resulting in his move to join Conte’s side, but it’s evident that he’s struggled to replicate such form in the current season.
However, his 6’7 frame could work well in Dyche’s system at the City Ground, with the Reds currently lacking an aerially dominant option in the opposition’s 18-yard box.
Five of his 12 league strikes last season came with his head, which showcases his talent in the air – but if he is to succeed in the East Midlands, he will need quality ammunition into the box.
That’s where a move for Olivera could help Lucca settle into life in England, with the Uruguayan already having a perfect understanding of what’s needed given their time together in Italy.
Whilst he’s primarily a full-back, the 28-year-old has demonstrated quality within attacking areas that could allow the potential new striker to adhere himself to the fans and help the club secure survival.
Olivera, who’s been dubbed “incredible” by journalist Jazz Theory, has completed 80% of the crosses he’s attempted this campaign, whilst also completing 87% of the passes he’s attempted.
Such numbers demonstrate the quality he possesses with the ball at his feet, with the aforementioned figures falling perfectly into the hands of Lucca should they both make moves this month.
Mathias Olivera – Serie A stats (2025/26)
Statistics (per 90)
Tally
Games played
12
Minutes played
593
Pass accuracy
87%
Cross accuracy
80%
Dribbles completed
33%
Tackles won
2.9
Duels won
66%
Aerials won
56%
Stats via FotMob
He’s also completed 33% of the dribbles attempted in 2025/26, whilst creating 0.9 chances per 90 – with both figures reaffirming his ability when driving forward with the ball at his feet.
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However, without the ball, Olivera has been just as impressive, as seen by his incredible tallies of 2.9 tackles won and 1.1 interceptions made per 90 this campaign.
He’s come out on top in 66% of the ground duels he’s entered, whilst winning 56% of the aerial battles he’s contested – subsequently handing the Reds the quality they have lacked at left-back.
His talent at both ends of the pitch could make him a superb option for the Reds this month, whilst potentially putting an end to the struggles on the left-side of the backline – something which has plagued the club for countless years.
His partnership with Lucca in Italy could be crucial for the pair in their chances of being successful in the Premier League, with the duo already having the connection needed for success.
Survival in England’s top-flight is a requirement for Dyche come the end of May, with the aforementioned duo potentially handing him a huge boost in his efforts for the months ahead.
Lucca alternative: Nottingham Forest make contact to sign "one man machine"
Forest have submitted an enquiry to sign a new striker.
ByDominic Lund
