Report: Forest Target Arsenal Youngster For Summer Loan Move | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest Target Arsenal Goalkeeper Tommy Setford in Summer Loan Plan

Credit to Football Transfers for revealing that Nottingham Forest are exploring a summer loan move for Tommy Setford, a young goalkeeper quietly gathering admirers in north London.

Forest’s interest speaks to a wider truth about modern squad building. Goalkeepers are no longer mere deputies or understudies. They are long term investments, shaped carefully, loaned strategically and assessed with forensic detail. Setford, an England Under 21 international born in the Netherlands, fits that mould.

Pathway at Arsenal

Setford joined Arsenal from Ajax in 2024 and has made two first team appearances so far, including a recent outing against Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup. As reported, he “has made two first-team appearances for the club, including against Wigan Athletic in the FA Cup last weekend.”

That cameo mattered. Scouts notice these details, the way a young goalkeeper commands his area, the tempo of his distribution, the calm in moments that threaten to become chaotic. Forest certainly did. According to the report, “a Nottingham Forest scout was in attendance to watch Setford’s cameo appearances versus Wigan last Saturday as the club continue their pursuit of his signature.”

His pathway at Arsenal remains congested. “Setford is yet to be included in a Premier League matchday squad this season, with Kepa Arrizabalaga acting as the back-up option to David Raya.” Opportunities at senior level will be limited for now, and a loan may offer the oxygen required for development.

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Intermediary Role and Forest Strategy

There is also an intriguing subplot. “We have been told that former Forest striker Pierre van Hooijdonk is acting as an intermediary for a possible transfer, with the 56-year-old now part of the PUM agency that represents Setford.” That link to Forest’s past could smooth conversations that might otherwise stall.

Forest’s current situation makes the timing logical. “January signing Stefan Ortega has started Forest’s last three games in all competitions, but his short-term deal is due to expire this summer and the club have now earmarked Setford as a possible summer target.” Planning ahead, rather than reacting late, suggests a club thinking carefully about succession.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Forest perspective, this feels like intelligent business. Supporters will recognise the need for clarity in the goalkeeping department. Ortega has steadied things, but with his deal expiring, there is uncertainty.

Setford represents potential rather than proof. That will excite some and concern others. A loan deal lowers the risk. It allows Forest to assess whether he can cope with the rhythm of the Premier League, the physicality, the relentless scrutiny after a 2-1 defeat or a costly error.

Fans may also appreciate the Pierre van Hooijdonk link. There is something reassuring about a familiar name helping shape recruitment. It suggests relationships are being leveraged effectively.

The key question will be readiness. Two senior appearances for Arsenal do not constitute experience. Forest supporters will want assurances that this is not merely a developmental favour to a bigger club, but a move aligned with their own ambitions.