Nottingham Forest were ready to offer player ‘golden salary’ – Midfielder now a ‘new icon’

Nottingham Forest were trying to sign Davide Frattesi but the player joined Lazio. Now, details are emerging about his move back to Rome.

The Italian’s situation at Inter Milan had become largely untenable. He stopped being a regular during the 2025/26 campaign and this led to his future becoming uncertain even in January.

Nottingham Forest had been close to signing him at that point but a deal never went through. There was little time left to iron out a move but the Midlands club remained keen on a summer deal.

Now, the player has joined Lazio and has already scored three goals in Serie A.

Player rejected move to England

Today’s Corriere dello Sport has a major article about the midfielder, who they hail as the ‘new icon’ at Lazio, who are unbeaten in the league so far in the campaign.

They add background to his return to Rome, noting that he was always keen on a Lazio transfer.

The newspaper add that Nottingham Forest were looking to hand him a ‘golden salary’ in January. This wasn’t enough to convince Frattesi, who was only interested in joining Lazio.

Inter had no preferences and would’ve agreed to sell him to an English club too. But the player’s decision proved key, as Lazio made an offer at the right time.

He has been brought in for an initial loan fee of €5m and an option to buy of €10m. He is all but a Lazio player permanently already, as the high loan fee signals the Biancocelesti’s desire to keep him beyond this season.

Frattesi’s decision makes sense

Lazio find themselves in a very good spot in Serie A. Even if they won’t challenge for the title, they will definitely challenge for European qualification.

Nottingham Forest wouldn’t have guaranteed that. More than that, the 26-year-old is playing in a very favourable role under Rino Gattuso. He is allowed to crash the box at will and catch opposition defenders by surprise.

This may not have been possible in England and Frattesi now has all he needs to get back to the top.