Nottingham Forest Identify Aston Villa Forward as Key Summer Target | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest Target Jacob Ramsey Ahead of European Campaign

Ramsey Identified as Key Summer Addition

Nottingham Forest have stepped up their summer transfer activity by targeting Aston Villa’s Jacob Ramsey as a priority signing ahead of their long-awaited return to European football. As The Telegraph reported, “Nottingham Forest have made Aston Villa forward Jacob Ramsey a primary summer target to bolster their squad before their long-awaited return to European football next season.”

At 24, Ramsey offers Premier League experience, tactical versatility, and the type of energy that suits Nuno Espirito Santo’s style. His ability to operate across the forward line, including as a left winger or No 10, makes him an ideal candidate to strengthen Forest’s depth in attack. As the club prepares for a demanding 2025–26 season, his addition would mark a significant reinforcement.

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Ambition at City Ground Gathers Momentum

Following an impressive seventh-place finish last season, Forest are determined to avoid the pitfalls that can follow unexpected success. Their participation in the Europa League marks a return to continental competition after a three-decade absence, and recruitment has reflected that ambition.

While Brazilian duo Igor Jesus and Jair Cunha have joined from Botafogo, the club also made a major financial move by sanctioning “Anthony Elanga’s departure to Newcastle for £55 million.” Additionally, Tottenham Hotspur remain interested in Morgan Gibbs-White, further underlining the need to bring in quality reinforcements.

Ramsey’s Premier League pedigree fits that bill. Last season, he featured 29 times in the league for Villa, although “10 of those appearances came off the bench,” and he was often rotated by Unai Emery. He still managed to start in significant fixtures, including “Villa’s win over Bayern Munich.”

Financial and Squad Value for Villa and Forest

Should the deal progress, Aston Villa would view Ramsey’s sale as a strategic financial win. “Ramsey… would represent a ‘pure profit’ on their balance sheet if a deal can be agreed,” due to his progression from their academy. He also counts as a “home trained” player for UEFA purposes, a factor that gives him strong value in any squad facing European competition.

From Forest’s side, Ramsey offers a rare combination of tactical adaptability, experience, and age-profile that suits their evolving recruitment model. He can slot seamlessly into the roles vacated by Elanga and potentially Gibbs-White, offering continuity in style and work rate.

England Recognition Underlines Rising Reputation

Ramsey’s profile received a further boost when England manager Thomas Tuchel acknowledged him during his first squad announcement. Tuchel said, “There are some tough ones, with the likes of James Maddison, Gibbs-White and also Jacob Ramsey.” His inclusion among that company reflects how highly he is regarded within English football circles.

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Ramsey’s past as an England Under-21 regular and his goal-scoring threat from midfield could prove valuable in Forest’s dual campaign. Though Everton and West Ham are also credited with interest, Forest’s offer of European football may give them the edge. With a fee expected to be “upwards of £30 million,” Forest will need to act decisively.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Nottingham Forest supporters, targeting Jacob Ramsey is a statement of intent. It shows the club are planning not just for survival or stability, but for progression. Ramsey brings a blend of Premier League know-how, versatility and technical quality that would immediately elevate the midfield and attacking options.

While some fans might hesitate at the £30 million valuation, the long-term upside is clear. Ramsey has proven himself in big moments and can operate in several roles, making him a valuable asset over the course of a heavy fixture schedule. His stamina and pressing instincts also make him a good fit for Nuno’s structured but aggressive approach.

The Europa League will stretch Forest’s squad, and depth in the forward and creative midfield roles is essential. Ramsey could slot in behind the striker, out wide, or even as part of a midfield three. For fans at the City Ground, it’s refreshing to see the club targeting players who are not just squad fillers, but difference-makers. If this deal is finalised, it could be one of the smartest moves of the summer.