Nottingham Forest are preparing a sensational €40 million bid to land Senegalese forward Assane Diao, just months after his breakthrough at Italian club Como.
Signed for €12 million during the January transfer window, the 19-year-old has wasted no time making his mark in Serie B.
With six goals and one assist in only 14 appearances, Diao has been instrumental in revitalising Como’s campaign and has quickly established himself as one of the league’s standout performers.
His swift rise has caught the attention of clubs across Europe, but it is Nottingham Forest who appear most determined to secure his signature.
According to reports from Spain and Italy, the Premier League side are ready to make Diao one of their marquee signings, with a deal that would rank among the most expensive in the club’s history.
Forest’s interest is reportedly driven by a clear ambition to build a squad capable of challenging for a place in European competitions.
Diao, with his speed, technical ability, and eye for goal, fits the profile of the explosive attacking talent the club is seeking to add.
Como, however, now find themselves in a difficult position. While they were hailed for pulling off a coup by signing Diao earlier this year, the club must now weigh the sporting value of keeping their young star against the financial reward of a potentially record-breaking transfer fee.
The proposed €40 million would represent a staggering profit just months after Diao’s arrival in Lombardy.
Still, there is uncertainty over whether Como will be willing to part with the Senegalese international so soon.
The club has yet to indicate its stance publicly, and internally, discussions are reportedly ongoing about how to handle the growing interest in their star forward.
Diao’s future may also depend on how Como finish their current season and what ambitions the club has for next year.
A successful campaign could make the idea of staying more attractive to the player, who has adapted quickly to life in Italy and continues to grow under the club’s coaching staff.
For now, what is certain is that Assane Diao has emerged as one of the most exciting young prospects in European football.
His performances for Como have earned him international recognition and put him firmly on the radar of top-flight clubs.
Should Nottingham Forest proceed with their offer, the summer transfer window could bring a significant twist in Diao’s career.
The coming weeks promise to be decisive for the young Senegalese talent, who may soon be preparing for a new challenge on English soil.
