Nottingham Forest find themselves at a crossroads when it comes to Douglas Luiz.
The Brazilian, on loan from Juventus, was meant to be a key piece in their midfield puzzle this season, but injuries and limited appearances have complicated matters for the Premier League side.
Loan Deal Hinges on Appearances
Luiz joined Forest last summer on a loan deal that includes a £25 million obligation to buy.
However, that clause only activates if he reaches a certain number of appearances—believed to be around 15—and plays a substantial part in those games.
So far, hitting that threshold has proven tricky.
The 27-year-old started Forest’s Europa League win at Utrecht on Thursday but was substituted at half-time, marking the third time this season he has been taken off early.
Previous early exits include a September 2-2 draw at Real Betis, where injury sidelined him for a month, and a 2-0 defeat at Bournemouth in October, when he was on a yellow card and removed as a tactical precaution.
Injury Woes and Fitness Concerns
While Luiz’s talent is undeniable—he was pivotal for Aston Villa during their fourth-place Premier League finish in 2023-24—injuries and fitness issues have hampered his progress since moving to Juventus.
His early days at Forest were disrupted by setbacks, and his last league appearance came in a 2-2 draw with Manchester United on November 1, when he lasted just 14 minutes before going off injured.
Midfield Gaps Add Pressure
Forest face a shortage in central midfield with Ryan Yates injured and Ibrahim Sangare heading to the Africa Cup of Nations later this month.
Luiz’s availability could not come at a better time, but Forest still need to decide whether pursuing a permanent transfer is the right move.
Luiz was brought in under former manager Nuno Espírito Santo, who did not specifically request him.
He was seen more favorably by Ange Postecoglou, but Sean Dyche’s long-term plans for the Brazilian remain unclear.
January Transfer Plans Could Impact Luiz
Daily Mail Sport revealed that Forest are looking to strengthen in midfield during the January window.
Brighton’s Jack Hinshelwood and Everton’s James Garner are on their radar, though moves for players already featuring regularly under top managers may be tough to complete.
Where Luiz Fits Remains Uncertain
Forest’s midfield already includes Elliot Anderson as a guaranteed starter, along with Sangare, Yates, and Nicolas Dominguez.
Luiz’s role—and how much game time he receives—will give fans a clear indication of whether the club sees him as a long-term solution or just a stopgap during this injury-hit period.
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