Nottingham Forest are reportedly considering a surprise swap deal involving Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, in a move that could dramatically reshape the club’s attacking options ahead of the new Premier League season.
According to reports circulating around the transfer market, Forest are exploring the possibility of sending Awoniyi to an unnamed Premier League rival in exchange for another forward and a financial package. The proposed deal is said to have emerged after Forest began assessing their options in attack and considering whether a change could benefit both the player and the club.
Awoniyi has been an important figure at Forest since joining from Union Berlin in 2022. The Nigerian striker has made more than 100 appearances for the club and has established himself as a popular figure among supporters.
However, his future has recently attracted speculation. Reports earlier in the year suggested that Awoniyi could be open to a move after struggling for consistent opportunities, with German club Mainz among the sides linked with the striker.
The swap proposal would represent one of the more unusual deals of the summer transfer window. Rather than simply selling Awoniyi for a transfer fee, Forest would receive another attacker who could immediately compete for a starting position.
Forest’s interest in restructuring their squad has already been demonstrated by their activity in the transfer market. The club recently strengthened its defence by signing Ivory Coast international Ousmane Diomande from Sporting on a four-year contract, with an option for another year.
The club could now turn its attention towards the forward line.
Under the proposed swap arrangement, Forest would reportedly value Awoniyi at around £15 million and could ask for an additional cash payment depending on the identity and valuation of the player coming in the opposite direction. Negotiations, however, are said to be at an early stage, with no agreement currently in place.
For Awoniyi, a move could provide an opportunity to rediscover the consistency that made him such a dangerous striker during his time in Germany. Before joining Forest, he enjoyed an impressive spell with Union Berlin, scoring 15 Bundesliga goals during the 2021–22 season.
Forest supporters would understandably have mixed feelings about the potential deal. Awoniyi has produced important moments for the club, including goals that helped Forest during crucial Premier League matches. His strength, pace and ability to attack crosses have made him a useful option when fully fit.
Nevertheless, the club’s management may believe that a fresh attacking option could give the team greater variety.
