Nottingham Forest are preparing a major summer move for Assane Diao, with a €40 million offer on the table for the Senegalese striker following his standout performances for Como in Serie A.
The 19-year-old, who scored twice in Como’s emphatic 3-0 win over Lecce, has quickly emerged as one of the most exciting young prospects in European football.
Signed by Como for €12 million in January, Diao has wasted little time making an impact in Italy’s top flight, with his explosive speed and clinical finishing drawing widespread praise.
Forest’s reported offer, which would rank among the largest in the club’s history, underlines their growing ambition as they continue to consolidate their position in the Premier League and push for European qualification.
Sources in both Italy and Spain have confirmed the English club’s serious intent to land the forward, whose performances have also caught the eye of Premier League giants Manchester United, Liverpool, and Newcastle.
Como now face a critical decision regarding Diao’s future. While the €40 million offer represents a significant return on their initial investment, the club may choose to retain the teenager and continue reaping the rewards of his development.
With nine goals to his name this season, Diao currently leads all U20 players across Europe’s top five leagues in scoring, outpacing other rising stars such as Kenan Yildiz and Lamine Yamal.
Como goalkeeper Jean Butez added to the growing chorus of admiration for Diao, describing him as a “powerful and fast” attacker who has brought a new dimension to the team’s forward line.
His brace against Lecce helped the club secure a valuable three points away from home and climb further into mid-table security, boosting their prospects for a strong finish to the campaign.
The proposed deal from Nottingham Forest signals a shift in their transfer strategy, targeting elite-level potential rather than established stars.
With Forest keen to bolster their attacking options ahead of next season, Diao’s youth, raw ability, and proven goal-scoring instincts make him an ideal fit for their long-term vision.
However, Como’s stance remains cautious. While the financial offer is compelling, the club may believe that Diao’s market value could rise even further with another full season in Serie A.
For the player himself, the prospect of Premier League football presents a potentially career-defining opportunity, though staying in Italy to develop further could also appeal.
With the summer transfer window approaching, Diao’s future is now one of the most closely watched stories in Italian football.
Whether he remains in Como to continue his rise or makes a high-profile switch to England, his trajectory appears destined for the top.
As negotiations advance, Nottingham Forest will be hoping that their bold approach proves successful in securing one of Africa’s brightest young talents.
