Forest Finalize Signing of Serbian Defender Nikola Milenkovic from Fiorentina

Nottingham Forest have finalized the signing of Nikola Milenkovic from Fiorentina. The 26-year-old defender joins Forest on a five-year contract, with the transfer fee reported to be £12 million. Milenkovic underwent a medical on Wednesday as part of the transfer process.

The acquisition addresses a need for defensive reinforcement following the sale of centre-back Moussa Niakhate to Lyon for £27 million.

Chief football officer Ross Wilson commented, "He is a key part of our squad planning this summer and I know how enthusiastic he has been to join the club. We have long admired his performances with the Serbia national team and in Serie A and European competitions for Fiorentina. We are delighted he will bring his experience and qualities to Nottingham Forest."

Milenkovic, who has earned 56 caps for Serbia, participated in all of their Group C matches at Euro 2024, including the 1-0 loss to England.

Beginning his career at Partizan Belgrade, Milenkovic moved to Fiorentina in 2017 at the age of 19. Over his seven-year tenure with the Serie A club, he made 264 appearances, scoring 17 goals and providing five assists.