Forest target South American talent after standout Club World Cup display | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest Step Up Interest in Richard Rios as Club World Cup Scouting Intensifies

Forest Move Early in Battle for £85m Midfield Star

Nottingham Forest have taken a proactive step in their summer recruitment strategy by dispatching a club representative to monitor Palmeiras midfielder Richard Rios at the Club World Cup, according to GiveMeSport. The Colombian international featured in Palmeiras’ goalless draw against Porto, and Forest were among a cluster of clubs present to assess his performance.

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The 25-year-old has emerged as one of South America’s standout midfielders, and Forest’s interest underlines their growing ambition following qualification for the UEFA Conference League. Head coach Nuno Espirito Santo is known to favour technically assured, combative midfielders, and Rios fits that mould with his blend of physical dominance and sharp tactical awareness.

Photo: IMAGO

Rios currently has a release clause reportedly in the region of £85 million, which places Palmeiras in a strong position. But Forest’s willingness to make an early move could be pivotal in establishing dialogue before Europe’s heavyweight clubs ramp up interest.

Colombian Midfielder on Multiple Premier League Radars

Forest are not alone in their admiration. Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring the Colombian’s situation, with several Premier League scouts present during the Club World Cup. Rios’s control in midfield, matched with an ability to break up play and start attacks, has attracted widespread praise.

Scout Ben Mattinson described him as a “freak athlete” for his stamina and positional awareness, while others have noted his growing maturity in dictating tempo and shielding the defence.

Photo: IMAGO

Despite having a contract with Palmeiras until 2028, there is a growing sense that the player could be open to a move to Europe. Forest’s early engagement may provide them with an edge, though they will need to assess whether the financials make sense for a club still operating with long-term sustainability in mind.

Forest’s South American Strategy Gains Momentum

This move would not be Forest’s first foray into Brazilian football. Less than 12 months ago, they secured the services of Carlos Miguel from Corinthians for £4 million, and Rios could be the next major South American addition to a squad now preparing for European competition.

As Forest continues to modernise their recruitment model, the focus on South America is a strategic shift designed to unearth emerging talent before they are priced out of the market. According to GiveMeSport, the club are aiming to expand their scouting operations beyond Europe, and Rios is a prime candidate in this evolving framework.

With Harry Toffolo departing and further squad reshaping expected, Forest see midfield as a key area for reinforcement. While the fee associated with Rios would represent a significant outlay, the club’s board are exploring how the deal could be structured, particularly if Palmeiras soften their stance or are willing to negotiate below the release clause.

Photo: IMAGO

Timing Will Be Key in Sealing Deal

Forest’s qualification for Europe provides them with a stronger negotiating position and a more compelling pitch to players looking for a new challenge. Rios has not yet played in Europe, and the opportunity to test himself in the Premier League and on the European stage could influence his decision.

Although competition for the midfielder is increasing, Forest’s ability to move swiftly and with intent has the potential to shape the outcome. A formal offer has yet to be submitted, but the groundwork is being laid.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Richard Rios represents the type of ambitious, forward-thinking signing Forest fans have been hoping to see under Nuno and the current ownership. He’s not just a technical player; he’s a leader in midfield, someone who reads the game and influences it from deep.

What stands out most is that Forest are no longer merely reactive in the market — they’re targeting players proactively and moving early, even with heavy competition looming. Dispatching scouts to watch Rios in a high-pressure fixture like the Club World Cup shows intent and structure behind the scenes.

The reported £85 million release clause is eye-watering, yes, but it’s not necessarily reflective of the fee Forest would need to pay. If the club can negotiate a more realistic price, Rios could be a game-changing addition.

His style suits the Premier League, and his profile fits a team seeking to play on the front foot in Europe next season. Forest fans should feel encouraged — this isn’t a speculative rumour, it’s a sign the club are serious about elevating their squad. Now, the question is whether they can act decisively enough to land him.