Exclusive: Nottingham Forest continue talks for signing, player’s decision after World Cup
by Naveen Ullal · Sport WitnessNottingham Forest are working on a deal to sign Napoli’s Mathías Olivera, a source has told Sport Witness.
The Premier League side looked at the 28-year-old in the winter market but weren’t able to get the deal over the line.
On March 27th, Sport Witness revealed Nottingham Forest are ‘still trying’ to sign the left-back.
At that time, we stated a move depends on the Reds staying in the Premier League. They are now 16th in the table, eight points ahead of 18th placed Tottenham Hotspur.
The City Ground club’s immediate focus is to avoid relegation while behind the scenes, work is ongoing to reshape their squad for next season.
Nottingham Forest in talks with Napoli
The Premier League side continue to have the Uruguay international on their agenda.
A source told Sport Witness Nottingham Forest continue to hold talks with the Serie A side for the 28-year-old’s transfer. It’s unclear how the discussions are progressing between the two clubs.
We are also not aware of the fee needed to convince Antonio Conte’s side to sanction a move.
Mathías Olivera has been a regular for the national team. Barring a last-minute surprise, he will make it to Marcelo Bielsa’s squad for the World Cup.
With Nottingham Forest as an option, the South American will make a decision on his future after the World Cup.
Vítor Pereira’s side have made progress in this operation. The move could be tempting if the Reds were to qualify for the Champions League by winning the Europa League. To do this, they must first overcome Aston Villa in the semi final.
Contract, value, stats and agent info
The defender’s preferred position is on the left side of the defence and can also operate as a centre-back. He played 1,698 minutes from 30 matches for Napoli this season.
His Serie A stats are as follows:
- Appearances: 22
- Starts: 13
- Total minutes: 1,240
- Minutes per game: 56
Mathías Olivera has a contract until 2030 and is valued at €15m by Transfermarkt. Agency GBG Global Business Group, based out of Uruguay, are managing the Nottingham Forest target.