New Nuno contract stance emerges as Nottingham Forest accept January transfer window 'priority'
by Sarah Clapson · NottinghamshireLiveA new deal for Nottingham Forest head coach Nuno Espirito Santo could be put on the backburner for the time being, it has been claimed.
Sorting out the futures of a number of key figures is a priority for the Reds this month as they navigate a key January transfer window, with talks taking place over fresh terms for several players. And it seems that means arranging a new contract for Nuno might be one for further down the line.
The Portuguese penned a two-and-a-half-year deal when he replaced Steve Cooper at the helm in December 2023. He has done a remarkable job at the City Ground since then, steering Forest to safety last season and transforming them into top-four contenders this time around.
Reports earlier this month suggested the club were ready to start discussions with the 50-year-old over his future “in the coming weeks”. However, it is now said the immediate focus is on tying down some of their prized assets.
The Reds have been in talks with striker Chris Wood, full-back Ola Aina, playmaker Morgan Gibbs-White and defender Murillo about new deals. TBR Football report, Forest hope to sort a new contract for Nuno once those situations have been resolved.
They add that the head coach’s future “could wait until the end of the season”. The report states: “Nuno is very happy with how things are going and wants to make sure his squad is finalised with their respective new deals first.”
An automatic year’s extension is set to be triggered on Aina’s contract, which is due to expire in the summer. However, talks have taken place regarding a further extension for the Nigeria international.
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Wood’s current deal is due to run out at the end of the campaign but the Reds are keen to retain his services. Gibbs-White (2027) and Murillo (2028) have longer deals but the club are looking to offer the duo improved terms.
Nuno currently has Forest third in the Premier League table, below second-placed Arsenal on goal difference and six points adrift of leaders Liverpool. Arne Slot’s side make the trip to Trentside next Tuesday (January 14, 8pm kick-off) for a tasty clash in what represents the Reds’ next league outing.
Before then, Forest host Luton Town in the third round of the FA Cup on Saturday (3pm kick-off). The competition means a lot to Nuno and he will be eager to oversee a good cup run.