Nottingham Forest are making a serious move in the transfer market as they step up their interest in Belgian international striker Lois Openda.
The 26-year-old, currently at Juventus, has emerged as one of Forest’s top attacking targets this summer, with the club understood to be highly pursuing the forward ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season.
Juventus are open to selling Openda and have reportedly set an asking price in the region of £35m – £40m. Some reports suggest the Italian club would be willing to negotiate around the £30m – £35m mark for a quick deal, especially after a disappointing spell in Turin where he struggled for goals following his big-money move from RB Leipzig.
Why Openda Fits Vitor Pereira’s Plans
Openda is a fast, powerful, and clinical striker with proven pedigree. He scored prolifically at RB Leipzig before his move to Juventus and remains a regular for Belgium at the 2026 World Cup. His pace and movement would add a new dimension to Forest’s attack.
A source close to the negotiations told TEAMtalk that Nottingham Forest, along with Everton and Leeds United, are among the most keen English clubs. Juventus are keen to offload the striker to recoup as much of their investment as possible.
Forest manager Vitor Pereira is prioritising attacking reinforcements this summer as the club looks to build on their solid Premier League campaign and avoid another relegation scrap.
Competition Heating Up
The race for Openda is intensifying, with multiple Premier League clubs monitoring his situation. A loan-with-option-to-buy deal has also been mentioned as a possible structure, though Forest are believed to prefer a permanent move.
For Nottingham Forest, landing a player of Openda’s quality at this price would represent strong value and send a clear message of ambition under new ownership.
The summer transfer window is still in its early stages, but this is one to watch closely. Forest fans will be hoping the club can fend off competition and bring the Belgian striker to the City Ground.
