Nottingham Forest join West Ham, Southampton in race for 31-goal attacker?

The 23-year-old has enjoyed a magnificent term for the Brazilian giants, scoring 15 goals and providing five assists in the top flight across 29 appearances.

Alberto has supposedly been a long-term target for both West Ham and Southampton, with the latter submitting a £15m bid for the player during the last January transfer window.

The attacker's statistics are even more impressive when considering all competitions, with the former Santos youngster bagging 31 goals during 57 appearances.

Earning his maiden call-up and cap as part of Brazil's senior side in 2023, Alberto also possesses relative international pedigree as a switch to Europe draws nearer.

Nottingham Forest to rival West Ham, Southampton in Alberto pursuit?

According to Brazilian outlet UOL, another Premier League contender has joined the highly-competitive race for Corinthians sensation Alberto.

The report states that Nottingham Forest are exploring the possibility of signing the 23-year-old, who is said to be ready for a move away from South America.

As well as the Tricky Trees, it is understood that West Ham and Southampton remain interested in the capture of Alberto during the January window.

Although Corinthians are said to be willing to part ways with the Brazilian over the New Year, they will not consider any bids than less €20m (£16.5m).

Forest are clearly targeting the South American market this season, with the East Midlands outfit also reportedly keen on Botafogo centre-back Igor Jesus.

Who needs Alberto the most?

Posting an eye-watering 38 goal contributions across fixtures in 2024, Alberto could be a real coup for any Premier League club outside of the title contenders.

At the age of 23, the Brazilian has the potential to grow into a top-flight star, however it is unclear whether he would be able to hit the ground running.

That would undoubtedly be the brief for Alberto at Southampton, who are currently losing their fight to remain in the Premier League following promotion in May.

Russell Martin's side are rooted to the bottom of the Premier League standings after a single win from their first 15 matches, sitting eight points behind Crystal Palace in the relative safety of 17th.

Written by

Carter White