Nottingham Forest and Vasco da Gama are now talking properly about Cuiabano. What started as interest has turned into a formal offer, although there is still work to do before any agreement is reached.
According to Globo Esporte, Vasco made an official approach in the last few hours. Nottingham Forest, however, have not changed their stance, as per ESPN Brazil. They want a sale. Vasco want a loan. That difference is driving the current round of talks.
To try and bridge the gap, Vasco adjusted the structure. The club now propose a loan with an obligation to buy, triggered by performance targets. If Cuiabano plays a defined number of matches, with at least 45 minutes per appearance, the purchase would become mandatory.
The first figure discussed stood at around €7m (£6m). Nottingham Forest showed interest in the idea, but not in the valuation. They want at least €10m (£8.6m), as we already covered. But talks continue, and the expectation in Brazil is that Vasco may raise the guaranteed amount to keep things moving. They do have enough money after all.
On the player’s side, the context also shifted. Cuiabano’s natural priority was a return to Botafogo, where he spent the past two seasons. That door remains closed for now due to Botafogo’s transfer ban. With the European window approaching its final days, his representatives decided not to wait. Cuiabano does not oppose a move to Vasco.
How things are looking more serious now
Further reports from local insider outlet NTVascaínos suggest negotiations have accelerated. They describe a package involving a €1.5m loan fee, plus around €6.5m in mandatory purchase clauses.
Nottingham Forest liked the structure, even if the numbers still need adjusting. Vasco’s confidence also comes from good working relationships between their directors and Forest’s decision-makers.
From Forest’s perspective, this is the most advanced conversation so far. They set a sell-only policy, watched Brazilian interest grow, and now see one club reshaping its offer to fit that reality. Whether Vasco can close the financial gap will decide if Cuiabano finally leaves Forest’s orbit – or if the club hold their line once again.
