Nuno responds to Matheus Cunha’s speculations
Nuno Espirito Santo has laughed off speculation linking Nottingham Forest with Wolves striker Matheus Cunha.
Foresta have been linked with the Brazilian forward as they look to strengthen their forward line in their surprise bid for a place in Europe this season.
But asked about rumors linking Tricky Trees with the Brazilian, who has scored 10 league goals for struggling Wolves this season, Nuno played down the claims.
“I don’t know anything about that,” the Forest boss said ahead of the Reds’ trip to Bournemouth. “How can I comment on that? I am very sorry to disappoint you.”
Forest have also been linked with Brentford striker Yoane Wiss, who has 11 Premier League goals this term.
Pressed more on Forest’s January transfer plans, Nuno added: “We’re working. The club is working, and more than anything else, on the aspect of our players staying here.
“This is because this is the team we have and these are the players who will solve all our problems. It is not easy to do business in this market and since we only consider options that will improve us, it is not easy.
“It’s a tricky market for all teams. That’s why I say we will do the opposite and keep our players here.”
Forest’s European pressure
Forest are currently in top third place in the Premier League, six points behind leaders Liverpool, having won seven of their last eight league games.
About their great season so far, the Portuguese coach added: “We are happy and satisfied with the performance of the players because they are very dedicated, they work very hard and we compete very well. The big challenge ahead is to maintain this level of performance.
“No one expected us or predicted this kind of situation, but it’s because of the relationship – they help each other not only in training but also during matches.
“The way we operate as a team. It’s not a surprise because we demand it, but the expectations are obviously there for all to see.”
Murillio’s new contract
Good morning, Reds 🥰 pic.twitter.com/yVyW9ljkYo
— Nottingham Forest (@NFFC) January 22, 2025
A sign of the good feeling at the City Ground is that centre-back Murrilo has signed a new contract after an impressive campaign so far alongside Nikola Milenkovic.
Of the Brazilian defender, Nuno said: “We are delighted that he will be here long-term. He is a player with immense talent and can improve immensely due to his age.
“He joined us last season and the progress is there. As long as he’s healthy and available, he’ll be great for us.”
Star striker Chris Wood, who has 14 league goals this season, is also expected to sign a new contract in the new future.
On the ongoing negotiations with the New Zealand striker, Nuno said: “I think things are going well, but I can’t give any more details about that.”
News about injuries in the forest
The Forest manager says winger Callum Hudson-Odoi has been questioned for their trip to the south coast this weekend.
Nuno said: “He felt his groin, it was very tight and it hurt a lot. He’s been out for a few days now and we’ll have to assess and see if he’s available or not.”