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Nottingham Post
Nottingham Post
Sport
Sarah Clapson

'Counting on me' - Nottingham Forest striker makes transfer claim ahead of summer decision

On-loan Nottingham Forest striker Nuno Da Costa says his future remains up in the air as his spell with Caen comes to an end.

The 31-year-old has spent the season with the French outfit, bagging nine goals and weighing in with four assists in 23 appearances. He has previously said talks have been held with Caen about a permanent move, although reports have suggested his wages could be a stumbling block.

But Da Costa remains under contract at the City Ground until 2023, and he says discussions with the Reds are on hold while they prepare to face Sheffield United in the play-offs. The front man also hints he has interest from elsewhere ahead of a “key” summer.

Read more: Forest sent 'millionaires' message after Man United defeat in FA Youth Cup final

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Asked whether he could stay with his loan club, Da Costa told Sporta Caen in a translated interview: “Yes, why not. Afterwards, I am under contract in Nottingham.

“For the moment, we haven't had a discussion deep enough to know which way it leans. We will see in the weeks to come. These are key weeks for me. Everything remains open.

“I know that Caen will do everything to try to bring me back. To see if it is possible there (in England). It will depend on the speech of the coaches, too.

“I still have a year of contract in Nottingham, it's not really easy to talk to them. I already know pretty much what to expect. I had a good season. From what I know, the coach seems satisfied. It will be a discussion between adults and we will find the best solution.

“They (Forest) are very focused on their objective of climbing and, inevitably, the deadlines for me have been postponed. They felt it was a bit early to discuss.

“I was told that the coach was counting on me for now. Will that change between now and prep? We're just waiting for a signal. My entourage and the club here are trying to do the right thing.”

Quizzed on whether his wages could be an issue, the forward added: “Well, that's not a problem. When you want a player and the player feels good, everyone is capable of putting in the effort.

“For me, there is no problem. It is a question of discussion. Nottingham are focused on their goal, I remain focused on the last match. We will surely know the details later.

“My wish is to find the best solution for the future. Am I going to stay here? Will I be asked elsewhere? My personal goals were achieved but I only played a little more than half of the matches.

“My wish is to find a project where I will flourish, where I will play. I don't want to find myself in a project where I will spend my time watching the birds on the bench. What is important at my age is to play.

“There are interests but we know how football is. If you have a good season, it inevitably arouses interest. Better that than the other way around.”

Should Forest let Da Costa go? Have your say in the comments below

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