Nottingham Forest make offer for ex-Derby sensation as Marinakis demand made

Nottingham Forest have reportedly submitted a bid to sign a former Derby County sensation as owner Evangelos Marinakis is given a clear demand to proceed with the transfer.

Forest seal statement Europa League win over Aston Villa

Forest took a major step forward in Europe this week with an impressive win over Aston Villa, a result that has strengthened belief around the club during a crucial phase of the season.

It was a performance built on control and clinical finishing, with Forest showing they can handle big occasions as they continue their push on multiple fronts.

The victory not only boosted morale but also underlined the major progress being made under Vitor Pereira.

Forest have looked organised, dangerous in transition and increasingly confident against strong opposition in recent weeks, with the Tricky Trees now unbeaten in their last nine games across all competitions.

Thursday night’s statement only adds to the outstanding collection of victories picked up by Pereira’s side since mid-March, which includes a 5-0 win at Sunderland and a 3-0 demolition of relegation rivals Tottenham.

With momentum building, attention is now split between finishing the season strongly and preparing for what comes next.

Behind the scenes, that preparation is already well underway.

Reports suggest a new defender is high on the agenda, with Rayo Vallecano defender Nobel Mendy targeted by Forest after his excellent season on loan there.

Now, they also have their eyes on ex-Derby youngster Archie Brown.

Nottingham Forest make offer for Fenerbahçe star Archie Brown

According to Turkish outlet A SportsForest have submitted an official bid to Fenerbahçe as they look to strengthen their options at left-back.

The reported offer stands at around £14 million — placing Forest just below the Turkish side’s valuation.

Fenerbahçe are said to be holding out for around £16 million, leaving a gap of around £2 million between the two clubs, with Marinakis told what he must pay to land the Englishman.

That relatively small difference suggests there is room for negotiation, and the deal is being viewed as one that could progress quickly if common ground is found.

Brown, 23, has caught the eye with his performances this season.

Operating primarily as a left-back, he has contributed both defensively and going forward, registering four goal involvements in the league and a total of 11 across all competitions.

His ability to push forward from deep and support attacks is a key part of his game, while his physical presence — standing at over 6 foot — makes him effective in defensive duels.

His journey has been a steady rise through European football.

After starting out in England with Derby’s academy, he moved abroad to continue his development, gaining experience in Switzerland before stepping up in Belgium with Gent.

A move to Fenerbahçe followed, where he has further established himself at a higher level.

For Forest, the appeal is clear.

Brown fits the profile of a modern full-back — athletic, versatile and comfortable both defensively and in advanced areas. He can operate as a traditional left-back or in a more attacking wing-back role, offering tactical flexibility.

At 23, he is entering a stage where he can still develop further, but already has a solid base of experience across different leagues and competitions. That combination of potential and readiness makes him an attractive target.

Of course, competition and negotiation will play a role. Fenerbahçe are under no immediate pressure to sell, and with the player under contract, they are in a strong position to hold firm on their valuation.

For Forest, though, the intent is clear. After a strong showing in Europe, they are looking to build on that momentum by strengthening key areas of the squad.