Nketiah's Potential Move to Nottingham Forest: A Game-Changer?

Nottingham Forest is reportedly eyeing Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah as their primary transfer target, with hopes of securing a deal that could significantly enhance their squad. Nketiah, known for his natural finishing ability and positional awareness, has shown promise during his time at Arsenal, where he made 27 Premier League appearances last season, scoring five goals. Despite limited starting opportunities, his potential for growth is evident, especially with more regular game time at Forest. At 5ft 9in, Nketiah may lack the aerial prowess of other forwards like Chris Wood or Taiwo Awoniyi, but his knack for scoring headers and dynamic playing style could complement Forest's pressing game under manager Nuno. His energy aligns well with the team's strategy, which has evolved to emphasize higher pressing and urgency, as demonstrated in their recent pre-season matches. Nketiah's tenure at Arsenal has seen him transition from a bench player to a starting striker, particularly under manager Mikel Arteta, who has expressed a strong desire to retain him. However, with 98 of his 168 appearances coming as a substitute, the 25-year-old may be ready to carve out a more prominent role elsewhere. A move to Forest could provide him with the platform to establish himself as a key player. For Arsenal, the right deal for Nketiah could be mutually beneficial, aiding their efforts to streamline their squad while capitalizing on his potential. This transfer could also follow the successful sale of fellow academy graduate Emile Smith Rowe to Fulham for £34 million, marking a significant shift in their player management strategy.