Nottingham Forest are closing in on the signing of Stefan Ortega from Manchester City on a free transfer. The German goalkeeper will provide crucial depth following John Victor’s season-ending knee injury, with the move addressing an immediate squad need at the City Ground. According to Eplindex.com.
Forest Secure Experienced Backup as Ortega Arrives from City
Stefan Ortega is set to complete his move to Nottingham Forest after finding himself surplus to requirements at Manchester City. The German goalkeeper made 56 appearances across three seasons at the Etihad Stadium but has not featured this campaign following the arrivals of Gianluigi Donnarumma and James Trafford, which pushed him to third choice.
Forest’s pursuit of Ortega stems from practical necessity rather than ambitious recruitment. The club confirmed that “Ortega is set to be Forest’s back-up goalkeeper to Matz Sels after John Victor was ruled out for the rest of the season with a knee injury.” This injury has left Forest requiring additional goalkeeping cover for their Premier League campaign.
The transfer structure favours Forest’s financial planning, with The Independent reporting that “The German will move to the City Ground on a free transfer, though the transfer could net City £500,000 if clauses are triggered.” This low-risk approach allows Forest to secure experienced cover whilst maintaining flexibility in their budget.
Ortega brings Premier League experience and training under Pep Guardiola’s demanding system at City. His 56 appearances demonstrate reliability when called upon, primarily featuring in domestic cup competitions and providing cover for Ederson during his time at the Etihad Stadium.
The signing represents part of Forest’s broader January transfer activity, which has included pursuing other targets whilst managing squad departures. Ortega’s arrival provides immediate depth behind Matz Sels and offers insurance against further injury problems in a crucial position for Forest’s top-flight survival ambitions.
