Nottingham Forest on alert as Monday meeting held for Dan Ndoye – Options being considered

As Nottingham Forest continue to shape their squad for the 2025/26 Premier League season, attention has turned toward a high-profile Serie A winger who could bring explosiveness and versatility to Nuno Espírito Santo’s attacking options. That man is Dan Ndoye, the dynamic Swiss international currently plying his trade at Bologna.

Sources close to the situation have confirmed that a key meeting was held on Monday between Ndoye’s representatives and club officials, with Nottingham Forest closely monitoring developments. The Premier League club has been long-time admirers of the 23-year-old forward, and now, with Bologna reportedly open to considering offers, Forest may be preparing a formal move in the coming days.

In this exclusive report, we examine the background to Nottingham Forest’s interest, the details of the Monday meeting, Bologna’s position, Ndoye’s role in Thiago Motta’s system last season, potential transfer complications, and the broader implications this deal could have for Forest’s summer strategy.

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Dan Ndoye: A Rising Talent in European Football

Dan Ndoye has been one of the revelations of the past Serie A season. After making his name at Lausanne-Sport and later at Nice, the versatile Swiss international made a permanent switch to Bologna in the summer of 2023 following an impressive loan stint. Known for his athleticism, direct dribbling, and relentless pressing, Ndoye is a quintessential modern winger, capable of playing on either flank or even as a second striker in a 3-5-2 system.

During the 2024/25 Serie A campaign, Ndoye played a crucial role in Bologna’s historic run to a top-four finish under Thiago Motta. His tireless work rate and tactical intelligence made him a key component in Motta’s high-pressing, fast-transition philosophy.

Across all competitions last season, he made 36 appearances, contributing 4 goals and 7 assists, though his overall impact went far beyond statistics. He was frequently used in big matches and often assigned the task of pressing opposition full-backs and initiating attacks from deep positions.

Ndoye’s performances also earned him a call-up to Switzerland’s Euro 2024 squad, where he impressed with his energy and adaptability. Scouts from various European clubs, including those in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and Ligue 1, have taken notice.

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The Monday Meeting: What We Know

On Monday, a significant meeting reportedly took place in Milan involving Ndoye’s agent, Bologna sporting director Giovanni Sartori, and intermediaries representing interested clubs, including Nottingham Forest.

According to Italian outlet Calcio Mercato, the meeting focused on exploring “strategic options” for Ndoye’s future. Bologna are aware of the growing interest in their forward and are weighing whether to cash in on a player whose value has surged after a strong Serie A campaign and Euro 2024 showing.

Forest, among others, were briefed on Ndoye’s current valuation and contractual expectations. Sources suggest that Bologna would be willing to listen to offers in the region of £17–20 million, with bonuses and add-ons depending on performance targets.

While no formal bid was submitted during the meeting, Forest’s name was “repeatedly mentioned” as one of the clubs ready to open talks should Bologna greenlight a move.

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Nottingham Forest’s Interest: Why Ndoye?

With Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi delivering mixed results last season, Nottingham Forest are seeking additional firepower out wide. While Morgan Gibbs-White remains central to Forest’s creative nucleus, there is a growing belief within the club that a player like Dan Ndoye could elevate their attacking transitions and offer a more vertical dimension on either wing.

Ndoye’s ability to stretch defenses, track back, and interchange with overlapping full-backs makes him an ideal fit in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 system. Head coach Nuno Espírito Santo, known for his emphasis on defensive structure and rapid counterattacks, is believed to have personally signed off on the potential pursuit.

Forest’s scouting department has followed Ndoye since his Ligue 1 days at OGC Nice, and their interest intensified after his performances against top Serie A sides like Napoli and Juventus. Club officials see him as a “Premier League-ready” player who could seamlessly adapt to the physicality and tempo of English football.

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Other Suitors: Forest Face Competition

While Forest are clearly interested, they are not alone in the race. Bundesliga side RB Leipzig, Premier League rivals Brentford, and French club Marseille have all reportedly shown interest in the Swiss star.

RB Leipzig, in particular, are said to be monitoring Ndoye as a potential replacement for Dani Olmo, who is attracting attention from bigger clubs this summer. Their model of signing high-ceiling, athletic players aligns with Ndoye’s profile.

Brentford, meanwhile, are preparing for life potentially without Bryan Mbeumo, and see Ndoye as a like-for-like successor in terms of style and work rate.

Given the multiple parties circling, Nottingham Forest will need to move quickly if they want to win the race.

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Bologna’s Stance: Sell or Keep?

Bologna are in a state of transition following the departure of manager Thiago Motta, who left the club to take over at Juventus. The appointment of Vincenzo Italiano as Motta’s successor has reset the team’s tactical direction, and it remains to be seen whether Ndoye features centrally in the new plans.

The club’s sporting leadership is believed to be open to offers for Ndoye if the price is right. With Champions League football ahead and the need to reinvest in multiple positions, Bologna could be tempted to offload a few assets to balance the books and provide funds for Italiano’s vision.

However, Bologna are also wary of losing too many core players in a single window. Riccardo Calafiori is heavily linked with Arsenal and Juventus, while Joshua Zirkzee is being pursued by Milan and Bayern Munich. Letting go of Ndoye as well could disrupt squad continuity.

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Ndoye’s Perspective: Premier League Ambitions

Dan Ndoye, for his part, is believed to be keen on a move to the Premier League. Sources close to the player suggest he sees England as the next logical step in his development and is attracted by the competitiveness and visibility the league offers.

Ndoye has not submitted a transfer request, but he is open to discussions if Bologna accept a formal bid. His current contract runs until June 2027, giving Bologna a strong negotiating position, though the player’s camp is hoping the club will not price him out of a move.

In a recent interview with Swiss media, Ndoye remarked:

“I’ve always wanted to test myself at the highest level, and the Premier League is where the best players compete every week. But I also respect my current club and the journey we’ve had.”

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Forest’s Transfer Strategy: Ndoye the Priority?

While Forest are exploring options in midfield and defense, the winger position has become a top priority after the club failed to renew the contract of loanee Gio Reyna and parted ways with Divock Origi, who returned to AC Milan.

Ndoye’s versatility means he could also be used in a central role if needed, giving Nuno tactical flexibility. With Forest expected to generate funds from the potential sales of Emmanuel Dennis, Remo Freuler, and possibly Moussa Niakhaté, a move for Ndoye could be financially viable.

Forest’s recruitment team, led by sporting director Ross Wilson, is now believed to be conducting due diligence on the financials of the move, agent commissions, and long-term contract structure.

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Transfer Hurdles: What Could Delay or Block the Deal?

Despite mutual interest, several factors could complicate the transfer:

1. Price Negotiations: Bologna will hold firm for £20 million, and Forest may need to offload players first before committing that fee.
2. Player’s Personal Terms: Ndoye is reportedly seeking a significant wage increase, with a preference for a long-term deal that includes performance-based incentives.
3. Work Permit and Registration: As a Swiss national, post-Brexit UK regulations require work permit clearance based on international appearances and league status.
4. Competition from Other Clubs: If Leipzig or Brentford accelerate their interest, Forest could be outbid or outmaneuvered.

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What’s Next?

Nottingham Forest are expected to hold internal discussions this week before deciding on whether to submit a formal offer. Should they proceed, talks with Bologna could begin by the weekend.

A second round of meetings between Ndoye’s representatives and Bologna executives is expected next Monday, by which time clubs will be asked to make their intentions clear. If Forest are serious, they will need to make a decisive move before the competition gains ground.

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Conclusion: Strategic Gamble or Smart Investment?

Dan Ndoye represents exactly the kind of signing Nottingham Forest need as they look to evolve beyond mere Premier League survival into a more stable and competitive side. His athleticism, tactical flexibility, and room for growth make him a highly valuable asset in today’s market.

But the path to securing his signature is riddled with challenges—from fierce competition to financial hurdles. For Forest, this is not just about adding a player, but about signaling ambition. A signing like Ndoye would send a clear message to rivals: Nottingham Forest are here not just to stay, but to thrive.

With the Monday meeting now in the books and decisions pending, the next few days could be decisive. Will Forest step up and bring Ndoye to the City Ground, or will another European contender swoop in?

Only time will tell—but the chase is on.