Now that the January transfer window is open, defender Nino, who is linked to Nottingham Forest, seems certain to head to Russia.
The Reds reportedly made an offer for the Fluminense center defender after keeping an eye on him for some time, according to recent sources from Brazil. However, his popularity has only increased, and he is reportedly nearing a trade to Zenit St. Petersburg.
Zenit has reportedly “made progress” in negotiations with Fluminense and is “close” to reaching a permanent agreement for the 26-year-old, according to Brazilian media site UOL. A fee of almost 5 million euros (£4.3 million) has been suggested.
It is reported that last month, Nino “had one foot” in a move to Forest, but the agreement fell through. For his services, the Reds were apparently willing to pay 7 million euros (£6 million).
The Brazilian had previously received an offer from Zenit, but according to Globo, he was not “excited about” moving to Russia. Zenit appears to have reversed course after rekindling interest and “raising their salary proposal,” which “shook” the defender.
There have been plenty of suitors for Nino. In addition, Feyenoord, Roma, Besiktas, Liverpool, Fulham, and Al-Shabab have all been connected to him. Furthermore, according to Globo, Real Betis expressed a late interest in signing him.
When Nino had given a speech following his Copa Libertadores victory in November, he had mentioned the Reds’ interest. He declared that he would only go if it was in Fluminense’s best interests.
In an interview with Globo Esporte, he added, “I also found out about the interest the day before (the final),” referring specifically to Forest. “My agent was already aware that I was concentrating on becoming better so I could give this game my all. I’m glad I succeeded.
They presented me with every scenario when we met this morning; nothing is set in stone just yet. What is certain is what I have always stated: I love Fluminense very much, I’m happy here, and I want to go if the time comes.
