Nottingham Forest Eyeing Prolific £25m Striker Outscoring Wood

Nottingham Forest are reportedly monitoring Manfred Ugalde, a £25m striker at Spartak Moscow who has outscored Chris Wood so far this season. This move could significantly boost their unexpected push for a European place.

Forest have enjoyed a remarkable season, climbing as high as fourth in the Premier League and shocking many with their performances. They’ll be keen to maintain this form as they face upcoming matches against Brentford and Tottenham Hotspur.

As the January transfer window approaches, Forest appear to be looking to compete off the pitch as well. According to reports, they are keeping tabs on Ugalde, who has a £25m release clause at Spartak Moscow. However, Forest aren’t alone in their interest, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Aston Villa also reportedly eyeing the 22-year-old for a potential 2025 move.

Ugalde’s impressive form makes him an attractive prospect. He has scored 15 goals in 18 Russian Premier League games this season, surpassing Wood’s 10 goals in 16 Premier League appearances. At just 22, Ugalde appears to be entering his prime and could be a bargain at £25m.

While Wood remains a crucial player for Forest at 33, the club must look to the future. Ugalde could potentially be the long-term successor to Wood, offering similar goal-scoring prowess with youth on his side.

Football Talent Scout Jacek Kulig praised Ugalde earlier this year for his “superb” season at FC Twente before his move to Spartak Moscow. If Forest hope to maintain their place in the Premier League’s top six beyond this season, securing Ugalde’s signature when the opportunity arises in 2025 could be a smart move.