Douglas Luiz joins Nottingham Forest on season-long loan from Juventus | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest Secure Douglas Luiz on Season-Long Loan

Luiz Returns to Premier League Ambition

Nottingham Forest have made a bold statement in the transfer market, securing the signature of Douglas Luiz from Juventus on a season-long loan. The deal includes a conditional obligation to buy next summer, signalling Forest’s determination to strengthen their squad ahead of a demanding campaign.

For Luiz, the decision was driven as much by ambition as opportunity. “I am so excited to start with the team and give my best for the shirt and the fans,” the midfielder explained. He added that he chose Forest because he could “see the ambition the club has.”

From Villa Hero to Italian Adventure

Luiz is no stranger to English football. After initially joining Manchester City in 2017 and spending time on loan in Spain with Girona, he found a true home at Aston Villa. Over five years in Birmingham, he amassed 204 appearances, becoming a cornerstone of Villa’s midfield. His final season was particularly impressive: nine goals in 35 Premier League matches.

Yet financial reality dictated his departure. Villa’s need to comply with profit and sustainability rules forced the club to sell, and Juventus seized the opportunity with a £42.35m move in 2024. Now, just a year later, Luiz returns to the Premier League, with Forest offering him a new stage.

Forest’s Summer of Heavy Investment

The arrival of Luiz continues a summer of remarkable spending at the City Ground. Following criticism from Nuno Espírito Santo about recruitment strategy, the club have responded with decisive action. Close to £140m has already been committed across seven signings.

England Under-21 winger Omari Hutchinson joined for £37.5m from Ipswich Town, while midfielder James McAtee arrived from Manchester City for almost £30m. Rennes striker Arnaud Kalimuendo also completed a move, costing an initial £26m. Luiz’s presence adds further weight to a squad preparing not only for another Premier League season but also for Europa League football.

International Pedigree and Fresh Challenge

At 27, Luiz brings both maturity and pedigree. He has represented Brazil 18 times and was part of the squad that secured Olympic gold in Tokyo in 2021. His blend of energy, technical quality and resilience could prove vital as Forest attempt to balance domestic and European commitments.

This move is more than just a signing; it is a declaration of intent. Nottingham Forest are no longer merely surviving in the Premier League — they are building to compete.