by Ben Ayuko
{image by Alamy}
Serbia international, Nikola Milenkovic has completed a £12m move to Nottingham Forest.
The former Fiorentina Captain was previously heavily linked with a big money move to some big premier league teams, including Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, before, for whatever reason, the links died out. Obviously, none of these clubs opted to sign, preferring new targets, the likes of William Saliba, Benoit Badiashile and Micky van de Ven respectively.
This has opened the door for Nottingham Forest to swoop in and seal the deal on a quality centre-back as Forest look to improve their status in the premier league going into the new season.
The 26yr old Serbian is known for his aerial dominance, no doubt attributed to his a 6ft4in frame, his strong tackling and his composure on the ball. Also, having been the captain of his former club, Fiorentina, he has leadership qualities that are sure to benefit Nottingham Forest as they look to avoid another relegation battle come the end of the season. He can also be a bit of a goal threat at set pieces, having found the back of the net 17 times during his time at Fiorentina.
“He is a key part of our squad planning this summer and I know how enthusiastic he has been to join the club,” said Ross Wilson, Nottingham Forest’s Sporting Director. “We have long admired his performances with the Serbia national team and in Serie A and European competitions for Fiorentina.”
It is undoubtedly a promising signing that is sure to excite the Nottingham Forest faithful.
All that remains is to see whether Nuno Espirito Santo, Forest Manager, can get the best out of him.