Nottingham Forest transfer news: £22m offer for Yoane Wissa rejected by Brentford, no sale in sight

In the latest Nottingham Forest transfer news, the club’s attempt to strengthen their attack has taken a hit, with Brentford rejecting their £22 million bid for forward Yoane Wissa. This development adds to the ongoing transfer saga, which saw Forest show interest in the Congolese international last summer. Despite Wissa’s strong performances, Brentford is keen to retain the 28-year-old, who has been a key figure in their Premier League campaign.

Wissa, who has scored 11 goals in 19 Premier League matches this season, is one of the standout players for Brentford. His consistency in front of goal has made him a highly coveted asset, and Forest are keen to add him to their ranks as they push for a Champions League spot. Yet, Brentford are resolute in their stance, turning down Forest’s bid, which was well below their valuation of the player.

The forward, who moved to Brentford from French side Lorient in 2021, has firmly established himself as a key figure for the Bees. With 41 goals and 9 assists in 133 appearances for the club, Wissa has played a pivotal role in Brentford’s rise within the Premier League. His current contract runs until 2026, with an option for an additional year, further strengthening Brentford’s resolve to keep him.

For Forest, the move for Wissa was part of their broader strategy to bolster their attacking options. Manager Nuno Espirito Santo is determined to take his team to the next level, and Wissa was seen as a valuable asset in their bid for a top-four finish. The club is currently sitting in third place in the Premier League, six points behind leaders Liverpool, and their recent form – winning seven of their last eight matches – has made them serious contenders for a Champions League spot. However, their failure to secure Wissa is a setback to their ambitions.

Brentford head coach Thomas Frank expressed his satisfaction with Wissa’s performances, highlighting his contribution as part of a formidable partnership with fellow forward Bryan Mbeumo. Frank noted that Wissa’s ability to take over the mantle from Ivan Toney, who departed for personal reasons, has been critical in maintaining Brentford’s attacking threat. The duo has formed a dynamic partnership, with their on-pitch chemistry proving invaluable for the Bees’ offensive play.

Although Brentford are standing firm, Forest may yet return with an improved offer. However, with Brentford’s recent success and Wissa’s importance to their squad, it remains uncertain whether the Premier League club will change their mind. Wissa’s future at Brentford now seems increasingly secure, as the Bees look set to hold onto their star player for the time being.

Nottingham Forest, meanwhile, will be looking to explore other avenues in the transfer market to strengthen their attacking options. With Taiwo Awoniyi still at the club and previously linked with a move to West Ham, Forest’s forward line could yet see further changes. However, the club will be cautious not to let key players depart without securing viable replacements.

As the January transfer window continues, all eyes will remain on Forest’s pursuit of Wissa, as well as their wider strategy to solidify their push for European football. The rejection of this bid, while disappointing, will not deter the club from looking for further opportunities to enhance their squad. The saga of Wissa’s potential move is far from over, and the coming days could reveal whether Forest can find the breakthrough they need.