Nottingham Forest F.C. Secure Brazilian Forward on Four-Year Deal
Nottingham, England – November 16, 2025 – Nottingham Forest have strengthened their attack with the signing of Brazilian striker Igor Jesus from Botafogo, completing a four-year deal valued at £10 million.
The club confirmed the transfer on Saturday, marking a major addition to Nuno Espírito Santo’s squad as Forest look to build on their seventh-place Premier League finish and prepare for their first-ever UEFA Conference League campaign. Jesus, admired for his sharp finishing and tireless movement, becomes the latest Brazilian to join the City Ground setup, following defender Murillo and former Botafogo teammates Cuiabano and Jair Cunha, who arrived earlier this year in a €35 million triple signing.
At 6’1″, Jesus combines strength, pace, and technical skill. A product of Santos and later a standout for Botafogo, he recorded 15 goals and eight assists in 38 matches during the 2024–25 season. His key moments included a brace in the Copa Libertadores final and a decisive strike against Paris Saint-Germain in the FIFA Club World Cup group stage—performances that helped elevate his profile. He also marked his Brazil senior debut in late 2024 with a goal against Chile.
Calling the move “a dream come true,” Jesus expressed his excitement. “Forest showed great belief in me. The passion of the fans is incredible, and I’m ready to give everything on the pitch,” he said through a translator.
Forest chief football officer Ross Wilson praised the forward’s arrival as a “long-planned and strategic signing,” noting his suitability for the club’s fast, attack-minded style. “Igor brings goals, link-up play, and high pressing—all crucial as we prepare for European competition.”
Forest’s summer transfer activity has reshaped the squad, with the club offloading several loanees while holding onto key players like Morgan Gibbs-White, who recently signed a new contract despite interest from Tottenham. Jesus is expected to compete immediately for starting minutes alongside Taiwo Awoniyi and Emmanuel Dennis as Forest prepare for a demanding schedule.
Fans welcomed the news enthusiastically, celebrating the club’s continued investment following Murillo’s contract extension through 2029. Captain Joe Worrall also greeted the new signing: “Welcome, Igor. Let’s make history.”
With the January transfer window approaching, Forest show no signs of slowing their recruitment push. Jesus could make his debut as soon as next weekend against Brentford, giving supporters an early glimpse of their latest Brazilian addition.