Nottingham Forest ‘unlikely to activate’ Douglas Luiz purchase option | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest are thought to be unlikely to make Douglas Luiz’s loan permanent this summer. The Juventus midfielder, 27, has played nine times since arriving on a season-long deal.

According to TEAMtalk, he is not a firm part of Sean Dyche’s plans and the next month and a half will be crucial. The report adds Dyche is unconvinced about a permanent move, creating serious doubts and making a return to Juventus likely. Any option that comes into effect would cost about €25 million (£22m).

His loan contains a conditional obligation to buy. It is said to be triggered by 15 Premier League appearances of 45 minutes or more, and five of his outings so far have been in the league.

Forest’s midfield is stretched. Ibrahim Sangare has left for the Africa Cup of Nations with Ivory Coast, Ryan Yates has a hamstring injury, and Nicolas Dominguez missed Tottenham with a knee issue but is hoped to be fit for next Monday at Fulham.

Injuries have set Luiz back, including more than a month out with a hamstring problem before returning in last Thursday’s Europa League win over Utrecht. With his future unclear, he is understood to be open to an alternative long-term move and is keen to remain in the Premier League after a difficult spell in Italy.

Dyche has kept January plans close, saying recruitment is an ongoing process with regular discussions at the club.

Source: Nottingham Post