Nottingham Forest supporters watching pre-season in Portugal are being reminded that the business of transfer windows continues away from the training pitches. One player whose future appears unsettled is Cuiabano, the 23-year-old signed from Botafogo who has yet to make a competitive appearance for the Reds.
Signed as part of a triple deal, loaned out again
The forward arrived at the City Ground as part of a package that also included John Victor and Igor Jesus. Rather than becoming part of Forest’s first-team plans, he was sent back to Brazil on loan to Vasco da Gama shortly after returning from an earlier loan spell with Botafogo.
Club sources indicate he will remain with Vasco for the remainder of 2026. That apparent lack of integration into the squad has prompted outside interest, with reports that Torino, Strasbourg and Rennes have all made enquiries about his availability.
"a bit of a forgotten man"
That phrase has been used by local coverage to describe his standing at the club — effectively a player who has not yet been given a competitive run in the first team. The contacts from European clubs, according to Jornal O Globo, suggest they believe a permanent move could suit both player and club.
Balance sheet and squad consequences
Forest paid £6 million for the player, a figure noted in recent reports. For a club that must weigh recruitment against budgetary and sporting priorities, the decision over whether to retain, recall or sell will hinge on a mixture of transfer fee, wage obligations and room in the squad.
- Player status: 23-year-old forward signed from Botafogo; no competitive appearances for Forest.
- Current arrangement: On loan at Vasco da Gama for the rest of 2026.
- Interest reported: Torino, Strasbourg and Rennes have enquired about his availability.
If Nottingham Forest were to break the loan early and sanction a sale, the club would aim to recoup some of the original outlay. That calculation will be influenced by the strength of any bids and the player's own preference for playing time in Europe.
What supporters should watch for
Fans should expect clarity on Cuiabano’s future before the transfer window closes and ahead of the new Premier League season. Possible outcomes include:
| Option | Implication for Forest |
|---|---|
| Recall and integrate | Squad depth increases but requires playing opportunities |
| Sell to European club | Immediate transfer income; frees a squad place |
| Extend loan | Continued development abroad; delayed decision |
Whatever the outcome, the situation underlines how some summer signings can take years to either establish themselves or be moved on. For supporters keen to see new arrivals on the pitch, the focus remains on recruitment that will provide immediate contribution during the coming season.
