Nottingham Forest complete signing of Borussia Mönchengladbach’s Luca Netz | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest have strengthened their defensive options with the signing of left-back Luca Netz (21) from Borussia Mönchengladbach on deadline day, BBC Sport have reported.

The 21-year-old has agreed a four-and-a-half-year contract at the City Ground and arrives as Forest look to add depth and balance to their squad during the second half of the Premier League season. Netz will compete with Neco Williams for a place on the left side of defence following the cancellation of Oleksandr Zinchenko’s proposed loan move from Arsenal.

Forest’s move for the Germany Under-21 international comes after an active window, but in which the club were unsuccessful in their pursuit of Celtic midfielder Arne Engels. Sitting 17th in the table, Forest have prioritised reinforcements capable of making an immediate impact while also offering long-term value.

Netz brings significant top-flight experience despite his age. A graduate of Hertha Berlin’s academy, he made his Bundesliga debut at just 17 before joining Gladbach in 2021. He went on to make 124 appearances for the club, establishing himself as a reliable presence in Germany’s top division.

Speaking after completing the move, Netz said the opportunity to play in the Premier League was a major factor in his decision. Forest’s global head of football Edu Gaspar described the defender as a player who combines potential with proven experience, adding that the club believes he can grow alongside the team in the years ahead.

GFN | Finn Entwistle