Danilo’s Transfer to Botafogo
Brazilian midfielder Danilo is on the verge of departing Nottingham Forest to join Botafogo, following an agreement between the two clubs over a transfer fee estimated at €25 million (approximately £21.7 million or $29.1 million).
Background and Previous Links
The 24-year-old player had initially been linked to a move to Lyon earlier this summer, after Forest and the French club reached a similar financial arrangement. However, the deal fell through due to uncertainty regarding Lyon’s league status, which stemmed from financial issues that previously saw them relegated to Ligue 2. Fortunately for Lyon, an appeal reinstated them in the top tier just weeks ago.
Return to Brazil
Danilo’s upcoming transfer marks a return to Brazil, two and a half years after he made the switch from Palmeiras to Forest. During the early part of his tenure at the City Ground, he played a significant role in helping the club avoid relegation in the 2022-23 Premier League season by scoring key goals. However, his subsequent performance waned, and the start of the 2024-25 season was particularly tough for him after he suffered a serious ankle injury just minutes into the first match.
Challenges and Squad Dynamics
After spending over five months in recovery, Danilo found it challenging to reclaim his position in the squad as Elliot Anderson emerged as a key figure in Forest’s midfield during his absence.
Ongoing Transfer Trends
This latest transfer for Danilo is part of an ongoing trend of transactions between Nottingham Forest and clubs that are part-owned by the Eagle Football group, established by American entrepreneur John Textor. Earlier transfers have included Orel Mangala and Moussa Niakhate’s moves to Lyon last year, while Forest welcomed striker Igor Jesus and defender Jair Cunha from Botafogo recently.
