Nottingham Forest eyes Danilho Doekhi for £22m

Nottingham Forest are moving quickly behind the scenes to bolster their defense, and the latest name on the priority list is Union Berlin defender Danilho Doekhi. According to information from Sports Boom, the team is evaluating the 27-year-old defender's availability as coach Vitor Pereira looks to strengthen his squad before the start of the new Premier League season.

Doekhi, who stands at 6'1", isn't exactly the type of signing that attracts a lot of attention, but he could be one of the most sensible options. His experience in the Bundesliga and entering his best years as a player make him a defender capable of immediately competing in English football. Sports Boom claim Doekhi is "highly admired" by Pereira, who is keen to add "strength, leadership and top-level experience" to his backline. This combination is crucial, as Forest have spent seasons dangerously close to the relegation zone.

Doekhi's capabilities go beyond his height and physical strength. He is known for his aerial presence, robustness and calmness in possession, characteristics that are increasingly valuable in a Premier League where defenders need to dominate duels and build plays under pressure. Furthermore, his educational history at Ajax, passing through Vitesse, where he was captain, and his performance at Union Berlin, offer a complete and diverse background.

Nottingham Forest's interest also has a context, as defenders Murillo and Nikola Milenković have attracted attention from other clubs in this transfer window. If one of them leaves, the need to find a suitable replacement becomes even more urgent. Union Berlin are expected to value Doekhi at around £22 million, a significant but not exorbitant fee for a defender with European experience and Premier League suitability.


Although a formal proposal has not yet been made, the report indicates that Forest's interest is "genuine", with "discussions ongoing behind the scenes". This statement suggests that the negotiation is progressing, but is not yet in the final phase. Leeds United are also said to be interested in Doekhi, but their attention appears to have cooled, which leaves Nottingham in a favorable position should they decide to act.

The time may be crucial now. A player open to a move to the Premier League, a selling club with a clear valuation and a coach eager for reinforcements is often the perfect scenario for a deal to start gaining traction. Pereira's arrival in February was marked by turmoil, and he became the club's fourth manager in a complicated season. After keeping the team in the Premier League, he now needs a squad that reflects a clearer plan.

Doekhi may not solve all problems, but it represents a logical step. Forest need defenders who can protect the box, deal with aerial pressure and remain calm in intense games – moments that often define seasons at the bottom of the table. If Forest progress from consultation to formal proposal, this could prove to be one of the most intriguing defensive moves of the summer.

Although Danilho Doekhi is not a flashy name for shirt sales, he could be a defender that makes NottinghamForest is more difficult to beat, which should be the priority. The biggest concern is clear: if Murillo or Milenković leave, Forest cannot be left without a plan. They need succession planning, not impulse purchases. Doekhi appears to be a player who could add real competition or become a direct replacement should one of the current defenders leave the club. At £22 million, the price is interesting – a serious amount, but not exaggerated by Premier League standards. If Pereira is looking for leadership, aerial power and composure, this is the type of profile Nottingham Forest should aim for. Furthermore, there is something comforting about signing a player who has been a captain and who has enjoyed success in the Bundesliga. Forest need characters as much as talent, and last season saw a lot of instability, resets and firefighting. Doekhi may not be a glamorous signing, but he could be a mature choice. For a club that needs calm, structure and defensive authority, this could be more important.

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