Nottingham Forest manager Vítor Pereira has reportedly made a firm decision regarding the future of Lorenzo Lucca—and it doesn’t involve keeping the striker beyond the current season.
Lucca, who joined Forest on loan from Napoli during the January transfer window, arrived with expectations of adding firepower to a struggling attack. However, just a few months into his spell at the City Ground, it appears his time in England could be coming to an early end.
A Move That Hasn’t Worked Out
When Lucca first arrived, there was optimism surrounding the deal.
The Italian forward had impressed in Serie A, scoring 14 goals for Udinese last season, and his physical presence made him an appealing option—particularly under former manager Sean Dyche, whose tactical approach often relies on direct play and aerial dominance.
Lucca even made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut against Leeds United, hinting at a promising start.
But since then, things have not gone to plan.
Pereira’s Tactical Shift
The arrival of Vítor Pereira has brought a change in direction at Nottingham Forest.
Unlike Dyche, Pereira’s system does not appear to favour Lucca’s style of play. The towering striker, known for his aerial ability and physicality, has struggled to adapt to a more fluid and dynamic attacking setup.
As a result, Lucca has found himself slipping down the pecking order.
Pereira has instead shown a preference for Taiwo Awoniyi to lead the line, with Chris Wood also returning to fitness—further limiting Lucca’s opportunities.
£40 Million Option Unlikely to Be Triggered
One of the most striking aspects of Lucca’s deal is the reported £40 million clause included in his loan agreement.
At the time, it reflected both his potential and his previous performances in Italy. Now, however, that figure looks increasingly unrealistic.
Reports suggest that Pereira has already informed the club that he does not wish to pursue a permanent transfer, effectively ruling out any chance of activating the option to buy.
Given his limited impact and reduced role in the squad, this decision comes as little surprise.
A Striker Signed for a Different Vision
Lucca’s situation highlights a broader issue in football recruitment—signing players for a manager who may not be part of the long-term plan.
Under Sean Dyche, Lucca made sense. His ability to win aerial duels and act as a target man aligned perfectly with a direct, physical style of play.
But with Dyche no longer in charge, that vision has changed.
Pereira’s approach demands mobility, technical ability, and versatility in attack—qualities that Lucca has struggled to consistently demonstrate in the Premier League.
What Next for Nottingham Forest?
With Lucca likely to return to Napoli at the end of the season, Nottingham Forest will once again be in the market for a striker.
This time, however, recruitment will likely be more aligned with Pereira’s tactical philosophy. The club will need to identify a forward capable of fitting into a more fluid attacking system while still delivering goals in a highly competitive league.
That task becomes even more critical given Forest’s ongoing battle to secure their Premier League status.
A Short-Lived Spell
For Lorenzo Lucca, the move to Nottingham Forest will be remembered as a missed opportunity.
While flashes of potential were evident, consistency and tactical fit ultimately proved to be major obstacles. At 24, he still has time to develop and rediscover the form that made him one of Serie A’s promising forwards.
Final Verdict
Vítor Pereira’s decision appears decisive and pragmatic.
Rather than committing significant funds to a player who does not fit his system, the Forest manager is choosing to move in a different direction—one that better reflects his vision for the team.
For Nottingham Forest, it’s another reset in their search for a reliable striker.
For Lucca, it’s back to the drawing board—but with lessons learned from a challenging Premier League experience.
