Awoniyi linked with Turkish move as Rizespor consider Forest striker

Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi has been linked with a move from Nottingham Forest to Turkish Super Lig club Rizespor.

The 29-year-old centre-forward has been at Forest since joining from Union Berlin in July 2022 for €20.5m. He remains under contract at the City Ground until 30 June 2027, meaning any move would require an agreement between the clubs rather than a free transfer.

Awoniyi has made 90 Premier League appearances and scored 21 goals, registering six assists. His Premier League record represents the largest body of top-flight football in his career, following earlier spells in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.

He began his senior career with Liverpool, who signed him from Imperial Academy in 2015, but spent several seasons out on loan before establishing himself in European football. His time with Union Berlin preceded the permanent move to Forest, where he has continued to be listed as a centre-forward.

The reported interest from Rizespor comes with Awoniyi’s current market value listed at €8m. No transfer fee or agreement has been established, and the rumour remains at the exploratory stage.

Awoniyi was part of Nigeria’s youth teams that won the Under-17 and Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations in 2015, as well as the Under-17 World Cup in 2013. He is currently contracted to Nottingham Forest through the end of the 2026-27 season.