nottingham forest The decision to gamble on Igor Jesus is becoming smarter with each passing week. Now the striker's growing reputation is now sparking transfer noise across Europe.
The Brazilian arrived from Botafogo without much fanfare in comparison to some of the attacking names who have arrived in the Premier League in recent windows.
He also arrived without proper leave after a heavy schedule in Brazil and initially had to wait for his opportunity behind Chris Wood.
Now the picture looks completely different. igor jesus has Has already scored 17 goals this season For Nottingham Forest. He has earned his place in the team and has even attracted the attention of Carlo Ancelotti ahead of Brazil's World Cup plans.
This growth is naturally attracting clubs from elsewhere in Europe.
European giants striker looming
brazilian journalist andre hernan Juventus and Porto are both reported to be interested in the striker after his impressive debut campaign in England.
According to Hernán, Porto are actively searching for a new centre-forward this summer. However, the Portuguese side are not expected to progress. Igor Jesus' value has already increased beyond his expectations.
As for Juventus, whose exact plans have not been elaborated upon by the Brazilian journalist, the Italian team has been one of the most wasteful teams in Europe in front of goal this season.
A quick, aggressive striker has arguably been their biggest weakness all year. So it would not be surprising if Igor Jesus becomes a real target.
The striker is now reportedly worth between €25m-30m (£21.1m-25.3m).
What's next for Nottingham Forest?
Porto's interest makes sense from a scouting perspective. The Portuguese club have a long history of targeting Brazilian attackers before their prices rise in Europe. However, Forest may have already passed Igor Jesus by that stage.
So Juventus is naturally a matter of more serious concern. The Italian side can operate in a different financial bracket and hope to strengthen their attack again this summer.
Still, forests are not under pressure. The striker remains under contract and his importance within the team continues to grow. Furthermore, the Brazil call-up is likely to increase his value even more in the coming months.
At this stage, the sentiment is less about an impending transfer and more about the market beginning to realize that Forest could be getting a very valuable asset.
