Nottingham Forest Break Transfer Record with €45m Dan Ndoye Signing
July 31, 2025 — Nottingham Forest have officially completed the signing of Swiss winger Dan Ndoye from Bologna in a deal worth €40 million plus €5 million in add-ons, making it one of the club’s most expensive transfers ever . The 24-year-old has signed a five-year contract until 2030, with an option for an additional year, solidifying Forest’s long-term vision under manager Nuno Espírito Santo .
Why Forest Went All-In for Ndoye
-
Elanga Replacement & Tactical Fit
- Ndoye arrives as a direct replacement for Anthony Elanga, who joined Newcastle in a £55m deal earlier this summer .
- A versatile attacker, he can play on either wing or as a central forward, offering Nuno’s system pace, pressing intensity, and directness—key traits for Forest’s counter-attacking style .
-
Proven Big-Game Pedigree
- Scored the winning goal in Bologna’s Coppa Italia final victory over AC Milan, ending their 51-year trophy drought .
- Delivered 8 goals and 6 assists in 30 Serie A games last season, plus standout performances for Switzerland at Euro 2024, including a match-winning display against Italy .
-
Beating European Competition
- Forest outbid Napoli, who backed out due to valuation concerns, while Premier League rivals also monitored the winger .
- The deal includes a 10% sell-on clause for Bologna, reflecting their shrewd negotiation .
What Ndoye Brings to the Premier League
- Explosive Dribbling: Ranked among Serie A’s top wingers for successful take-ons (2.7 per game) .
- Work Rate: Averaged 1.5 key passes and 2.1 tackles per game, fitting Forest’s high-pressing demands .
- Big-Moment Mentality: Scored 3 goals in Bologna’s Champions League campaign last season .
Controversy Over the Fee
While Forest fans celebrate, Italian transfer expert Alfredo Pedullà questioned the valuation, arguing Ndoye’s stats don’t justify €45m:
“If Ndoye is worth €45m, then Ademola Lookman should cost €70m+” .
However, Forest’s hierarchy sees his age, versatility, and resale value as justifying the investment .
What’s Next?
- Ndoye could debut in Forest’s Premier League opener vs. Brentford (August 17) .
- Expected to wear the #11 shirt, vacated by Elanga .