Nottingham Forest confirm signing of Palmeiras midfielder Danilo

Nottingham Forest have confirmed that they have completed the signing of Palmeiras midfielder Danilo.

Either side of the World Cup break, Forest have finally found their stride since earning promotion to the Premier League, moving five points clear of the relegation zone and reaching the EFL Cup semi-finals.

However, head coach Steve Cooper indicated earlier this month that the new arrivals would continue, and that has proven correct with the eye-catching addition of Danilo.

The 21-year-old has been linked with the likes of Arsenal and Barcelona in recent months, a transfer to the former looking more likely with Mikel Arteta having an interest in signing a new central midfielder.

Instead, Danilo has opted to make the switch to the City Ground, penning a six-and-a-half-year contract in the process.

A superstar has landed. 🌟 pic.twitter.com/d0xrHYpwaW

— Nottingham Forest FC (@NFFC) January 16, 2023

While a transfer fee has not been revealed, it has previously been claimed that Forest had agreed to pay in the region of £18m.

Speaking to the club's website, Danilo said: "I'm really happy to be fulfilling my dream of playing in the Premier League and playing for Nottingham Forest.

"I learnt a bit about the history of the club and saw they had won two European Cups. I spoke to Gustavo Scarpa as well, and he told me that Nottingham is a great city and Forest have a quality squad with really good staff.

"I will show a lot of determination and a strong desire to win and will always look to do my best on the pitch to achieve positive results. I'm excited about getting started and meeting my new teammates."

© Reuters

Although Danilo is primarily a defensive-minded player, he departs Palmeiras having contributed 12 goals and nine assists from his 141 appearances.

While Danilo is uncapped at international level, he leaves Brazilian football having made a considerable impact and winning six pieces of silverware.

Palmeiras won the Copa Libertadores in 2020 and 2021, campaigns where Danilo made a total of 24 appearances, while he also received the Bronze Ball at the Club World Cup behind Chelsea's Thiago Silva and teammate Dudu.

Danilo will hope to come into contention for his debut when Forest make the trip to the South Coast to face Bournemouth on January 21.