Nottingham Forest made a splash on deadline day, securing Oleksandr Zinchenko on loan from Arsenal and permanently signing Dilane Bakwa and Cuiabano. Zinchenko brings Premier League and Champions League experience, while Bakwa and Cuiabano add youth and potential. These signings, part of a 12-player overhaul, highlight Forest’s ambition as they prepare for European football at the City Ground.
Nottingham Forest orchestrated a dramatic deadline day spending spree, bolstering their squad with the acquisition of not one, but three new players. The headline move saw Oleksandr Zinchenko arrive from Arsenal on a season-long loan, adding significant Premier League and European experience to Nuno Espirito Santo's side. But the excitement didn't stop there, as Forest also secured the permanent signings of Dilane Bakwa from Strasbourg and Brazilian talent Cuiabano from Botafogo, signaling their intent to make a serious impact in the upcoming 2025-26 campaign.
Zinchenko's arrival is undoubtedly a coup for Forest. The versatile player boasts an impressive resume, having made 145 top-flight appearances during his time with Manchester City and Arsenal. He's also no stranger to the Champions League, featuring 41 times in Europe's premier club competition. His experience and winning mentality will be invaluable to a Forest side looking to establish themselves in the Premier League and make a splash in Europe.
The 28-year-old Zinchenko brings a wealth of silverware to the City Ground, including four Premier League titles. He was also a key member of the Manchester City squad that dominated the FA Cup, lifting the trophy in four consecutive seasons between 2018 and 2021. His winning pedigree is something that Nottingham Forest have been clearly missing.
Zinchenko's journey to the Premier League began in 2016 when he arrived in England. After an initial loan spell with PSV Eindhoven, he established himself as a key player during a successful five-year stint at Manchester City. His performances caught the eye of Arsenal, who snapped him up in 2022. Since then, he has made 91 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions, showcasing his consistency and reliability. His versatility is impressive, playing in multiple positions.
Welcome to Nottingham Forest, Oleksandr Zinchenko! pic.twitter.com/QFS00VoCMV
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) September 1, 2025
While the arrival of Zinchenko has dominated the headlines, Forest's other two signings are equally intriguing. Dilane Bakwa, a highly-rated winger from Strasbourg, has signed a five-year deal, highlighting the club's belief in his potential. The young Frenchman is known for his pace, trickery, and eye for goal, and he could prove to be a valuable addition to Forest's attacking options. Cuiabano, a Brazilian defender arriving from Botafogo, has penned a four-year contract. The club hopes he is one for the future.
Forest's busy summer transfer window has seen them bring in a total of 12 new players, signaling their ambition to compete on all fronts in the upcoming season. With European football returning to the City Ground for the first time in 30 years, the Tricky Trees are determined to make the most of their opportunity. The new signings will add depth, quality, and experience to the squad, giving Nuno Espirito Santo plenty of options to choose from.
The club's fans will be eagerly anticipating the start of the 2025-26 campaign, hoping to see their team build on last season's success and make a lasting impression in both the Premier League and in Europe. It is set to be an amazing season.
Forest's recruitment strategy has been praised by many, with the club focusing on bringing in players who can add both immediate quality and long-term potential. The blend of experienced campaigners like Zinchenko and promising youngsters like Bakwa and Cuiabano suggests that the club is building for the future. The challenge for Nuno Espirito Santo will be to integrate the new signings into the squad quickly and create a cohesive unit that can compete at the highest level. With the season fast approaching, the pressure is on to deliver results and justify the club's significant investment in the squad.
As the transfer window slams shut, Nottingham Forest can reflect on a successful summer of recruitment. The arrival of Zinchenko, Bakwa, and Cuiabano has added further quality to an already talented squad, and the club's fans will be dreaming of a successful season ahead. With European football back at the City Ground, the Tricky Trees are ready to embark on an exciting new chapter in their history.