Nottingham Forest’s decision to gamble on Igor Jesus is looking smarter with every passing week. Now the striker’s growing reputation is now starting to create transfer noise around Europe.
The Brazilian arrived from Botafogo without huge fanfare compared to some of the attacking names entering the Premier League in recent windows.
He also arrived without a proper holiday after a heavy schedule in Brazil and initially had to wait for his opportunity behind Chris Wood.
Now the picture looks very different. Igor Jesus has already scored 17 goals this season for Nottingham Forest. He has forced his way into the side and even earned attention from Carlo Ancelotti ahead of Brazil’s World Cup plans.
That rise is naturally attracting clubs from elsewhere in Europe.
European giants hovering striker
Brazilian journalist André Hernan reports that Juventus and Porto are both interested in the striker following his impressive first campaign in England.
According to Hernan, Porto are actively searching for a new centre-forward this summer. However, the Portuguese side are not expected to push forward. Igor Jesus’ value has already climbed beyond what they were hoping for.
As for Juventus, whose exact plans are not detailed by the Brazilian journalist, the Italian side have been one of Europe’s most wasteful teams in front of goal this season.
A sharp, aggressive striker has arguably been their biggest weakness throughout the year. So it would not be surprising if Igor Jesus becomes a genuine target.
The striker is now reportedly valued between €25m-30m (£21.1m-25.3m).
What’s next for Nottingham Forest?
Porto’s interest makes sense from a scouting perspective. The Portuguese club have built a long history of targeting Brazilian attackers before their prices explode in Europe. However, Forest may already have moved Igor Jesus beyond that stage.
So Juventus are naturally the more serious concern. The Italian side can operate in a different financial bracket and are expected to strengthen their attack again this summer.
Still, Forest are not under pressure. The striker remains under contract and his importance inside the squad continues to grow. In addition, a Brazil call-up would likely push his value even higher in the months ahead.
At this stage, the feeling is less about an imminent transfer and more about the market beginning to realise Forest may have landed a very valuable asset.
