Nottingham Forest are on the verge of a significant midfield coup after opening advanced talks to sign former Bayern Munich star Leon Goretzka on a free transfer.
The 31-year-old Germany international became a free agent at the end of June when his contract at the Allianz Arena expired, and Forest have moved quickly to position themselves as a serious destination for one of the most experienced midfielders available on the market this summer.
Goretzka spent eight highly successful years at Bayern Munich, making over 300 appearances and winning multiple Bundesliga titles along with the Champions League in 2020. His departure from the German champions was confirmed earlier this year, and after a period without a club, the opportunity to continue his career in the Premier League has become increasingly realistic.
Forest’s interest is understood to be genuine and well-advanced. Sources close to the negotiations indicate that personal terms have been discussed and that the player is open to the project being built under Oliver Glasner at the City Ground. The fact that no transfer fee is required makes the deal particularly attractive for a club that has already been careful with its spending this window.
One source familiar with the talks said:
“Goretzka is available and Forest have made a strong case. He wants regular football and a clear role. The conversations have been positive and there is real belief that this can be completed.”
For Forest, the potential arrival of a player with Goretzka’s pedigree would represent a major statement. The midfielder brings leadership, tactical intelligence, and the ability to control games from deep or push forward when required. At a time when the squad is still adjusting under Glasner, the addition of a proven winner could provide exactly the kind of experience and stability the team needs.
Goretzka’s career at the highest level speaks for itself. He has operated in one of Europe’s most demanding environments for nearly a decade, delivering consistent performances in the Bundesliga and Champions League. His physical presence, range of passing, and ability to break up play would give Forest a different dimension in the centre of the park.
Supporters have already begun reacting with a mixture of excitement and surprise. Many view the potential signing as a clear upgrade in quality and a sign that the club is prepared to think big even when operating without a transfer fee. Others have pointed to the practical benefits of adding a player who can step into the side immediately and help raise standards in training and on matchdays.
Glasner is understood to admire Goretzka’s football intelligence and his capacity to adapt to different midfield roles. Whether deployed as a holding midfielder or in a more box-to-box capacity, the German international offers versatility that would give the head coach greater tactical options.
There are still formalities to complete. A medical, final contract details, and agreement on the length of the deal remain outstanding. However, the absence of a transfer fee removes one of the biggest potential obstacles and places the focus firmly on personal terms and the player’s willingness to commit.
Goretzka himself is believed to be motivated by the chance to prove himself in a new league. After years of competing for titles in Germany, the Premier League represents a fresh challenge and an opportunity to extend his career at a high level. Forest’s ambition under the current ownership and the clear direction provided by Glasner appear to have resonated.
A move of this nature would also fit the pattern of smart recruitment Forest have attempted in recent windows — identifying experienced, high-quality players who can make an immediate impact without requiring enormous upfront fees. In Goretzka’s case, the combination of availability, pedigree, and remaining quality makes him an especially intriguing target.
As the transfer window enters its final phase, the coming days will be crucial. If Forest can finalise the agreement, they will land one of the most decorated midfielders available this summer and send a strong message about their intentions for the season ahead.
Leon Goretzka has left Bayern Munich behind.
Nottingham Forest are ready to offer him a new chapter.
And if the deal is completed, the City Ground could soon welcome a true Bundesliga giant.
