Nottingham Forest open talks with Manchester City over last-minute January transfer | OneFootball

Manchester City and Nottingham Forest are reportedly negotiating a late deal in the direction of the City Ground with just hours remaining in the January transfer window.

With multiple clubs across Europe still monitoring developments at the Etihad Stadium, City have found themselves fielding enquiries right up until the closing stages of the window, particularly regarding deputy options behind Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Stefan Ortega has been the subject of strong interest from abroad, with Serie A side Genoa and the Bundesliga’s Bayer Leverkusen previously credited with concrete interest, while the German international himself has been said to be holding “explorative talks” with clubs ahead of his contract expiring in the summer.

Manchester City’s stance has seemingly been clear throughout in that while Pep Guardiola is reluctant to weaken his squad mid-season, the club have accepted Ortega’s long-term future lies elsewhere with James Trafford remaining as back-up despite heavy interest.

Now, according to the information of Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg, Nottingham Forest are exploring a late deal to sign the aforementioned Manchester City and Germany international goalkeeper.

It is claimed that talks are already underway between the two Premier League clubs, and while more teams are keen on the experienced shot-stopper, Forest are pushing for a deal with Stefan Ortega set to leave the Etihad Stadium in the ongoing market.

For Nottingham Forest, the move would represent a significant opportunity to add proven Premier League and Champions League experience to their squad at a crucial point in the season.

Ortega has consistently impressed when called upon at Manchester City and is widely regarded within the game as one of the strongest back-up choice goalkeepers on the continent.

Much may depend on the specifics of the proposal now being discussed, although a permanent move could suit all parties given Stefan Ortega’s contractual situation, while a short-term arrangement may also be explored should time run out in the closing January market.