Nottingham Forest are on the verge of completing what could become one of the club’s biggest signings of the summer, with highly-rated defender Ousmane Diomande edging ever closer to a move to the City Ground.

After weeks of uncertainty, negotiations appear to have moved decisively in Forest’s favour, leaving supporters eagerly awaiting official confirmation that one of Europe’s most sought-after young centre-backs is ready to begin a new chapter in the Premier League.

The deal has not been straightforward.

At various stages, it appeared that discussions had stalled, with reports suggesting the transfer might collapse altogether. However, Forest remained committed to bringing the Ivory Coast international to England, continuing negotiations behind the scenes until a breakthrough was finally reached.

That persistence now looks set to pay off.

The proposed transfer represents a major statement of intent from the club as Oliver Glasner continues reshaping his squad ahead of the new campaign. Strengthening the defence has been one of the Austrian coach’s leading priorities, and Diomande has long been viewed as the ideal player to help transform the back line.

Still only 22 years old, the defender has already earned a reputation as one of Europe’s brightest defensive talents.

During his time at Sporting CP, Diomande impressed with his composure under pressure, physical presence and confidence when playing out from the back. His combination of athleticism and technical quality has attracted attention from several top clubs over the past two years.

Forest’s ability to move into a leading position for his signature therefore represents a significant achievement.

Should the transfer be completed, Diomande is expected to become an important part of Glasner’s preferred tactical system.

The Forest manager has regularly favoured a back-three formation, and Diomande’s pace, defensive awareness and comfort in possession make him an excellent fit for the role on the right side of central defence.

His arrival would not simply add another defender to the squad.

It would provide Forest with a player capable of leading the next generation of the club’s defence while offering long-term value both on the pitch and in the transfer market.

Reports suggest the agreement is worth approximately €40 million, underlining Forest’s willingness to invest heavily in young players with significant potential.

Such a fee also reflects the belief inside the club that Diomande can develop into one of the Premier League’s top defenders over the coming seasons.

For Glasner, securing this signing would represent a major boost before competitive football begins.

The Austrian has spent much of the summer evaluating his options while working to build a squad capable of competing consistently at Premier League level. Adding a defender of Diomande’s profile strengthens both the starting lineup and the long-term project the club is attempting to build.

Supporters will now be watching closely for the next stage of the process.

Medical examinations, contract formalities and official announcements are all expected before the defender is formally unveiled as a Nottingham Forest player.

If everything proceeds as anticipated, Diomande could soon be available to begin training with his new teammates and potentially feature during the club’s remaining preparations before the Premier League season gets underway.

Excitement around the transfer is understandable.

Forest are not simply adding another squad player—they are potentially securing one of European football’s most promising young defenders.

For a club eager to continue progressing under Glasner, that represents exactly the type of ambitious recruitment supporters have been hoping to see.

Now attention turns toward the official confirmation.

Once the final paperwork is completed, Nottingham Forest will have landed a player capable of strengthening their defence immediately while also becoming a cornerstone of the club’s future for many years to come.