Nottingham Forest star set to leave in the next few days | OneFootball

Jota Silva deadline day move collapses as Forest face uncertainty

Sporting move breaks down in final moments

Nottingham Forest winger Jota Silva came within seconds of securing a deadline day move to Sporting Lisbon before the deal collapsed. “The offer consisted of a loan with a £3.9 million fee as well as an obligation to buy Jota for £13.5 million at the end of the season.” Sporting reached agreement at around 11pm Portuguese time, but were unable to register the transfer before the midnight deadline. The collapse left Jota stranded at Forest, his preferred return to Portugal suddenly out of reach.

Photo IMAGO

Saudi and Turkish options remain open

Jota is still expected to leave the City Ground with Turkey and Saudi Arabia’s transfer windows still active. “TalkSport understands Saudi Pro League side Neom SC are interested in a move for the 26-year-old. They are set to make a loan approach with an option to buy ahead of next week’s deadline.” Such a move would offer Jota a fresh start after his frustration in Nottingham, where he has been used sparingly this season.

Player’s situation at Forest

Jota joined Forest from Vitoria Guimaraes last summer but has struggled to establish himself. He has made 38 appearances, scoring four goals and registering three assists. This season, his involvement has been limited to a brief substitute cameo against Brentford, with Nuno Espirito Santo excluding him from subsequent matchday squads. With three years left on his contract, his future remains a delicate issue for the club.

Photo IMAGO

Implications for Forest’s squad

Forest’s stance remains pragmatic. They were only interested in selling rather than loaning, reflecting a desire to recoup value on a player who has not become a first-team regular. Missing out on Sporting’s deal by seconds emphasises the thin margins that dictate modern transfer dealings.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Forest supporters had resigned themselves to Jota leaving, and in truth many expected it given his lack of impact since arriving from Portugal. To hear that the paperwork was missed by seconds makes the situation harder to swallow.

For fans, the prospect of Sporting offering £3.9 million upfront with an obligation to buy for £13.5 million felt like a strong return on a player who has rarely influenced big games. That Forest agreed and then watched it fall apart feels like an opportunity lost. Now, attention turns to Saudi Arabia and Turkey. The hope is that one of those leagues will come forward with a serious proposal before their deadlines close.

Still, there is some expectation that this could work out well for Forest. If Neom SC or another Saudi club makes a bid, the financial package could surpass Sporting’s offer. Forest supporters will want clarity quickly. A player not involved in Nuno’s plans, holding a long contract, risks becoming a distraction. The next week will be critical in determining whether this episode is remembered as a missed chance or a fortunate delay leading to a better deal.