Nottingham Forest defender Serge Aurier is now wanted by Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia. The 30-year-old will be out of contract during the summer of 2024 and now the interest looks to be intensifying.
According to football journalist Nabil Djellit, the right-back has admirers in Saudi Arabia. If he did go to Al-Nassr he could soon be lining up alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Sadio Mane.
Aurier starred as Forest won 2-1 against Sheffield United on Friday. He registered two assists as Forest won the clash thanks to Taiwo Awoniyi and Chris Wood goals.
The Reds are set to sign another right-back, however. Gonzalo Montiel is set to sign from Sevilla and that has thrown Aurier’s future into question.
Aurier has proved himself as a very good signing for Forest. He joined on a free transfer shortly after the summer transfer window closed in 2022 and quickly became a regular.
He made 28 appearances for the club, scoring his only goal in a 1-1 draw with Chelsea on New Year’s Day. This season, he has played in both of the team’s opening two matches.
Moving to Saudi Arabia might appeal to Aurier. Lots of high-profile names have headed to the Middle East this summer, with astronomical finances on offer.
It’s unlikely that Aurier will be motivated by the money. He’s spoken in the past about wanting to continue playing in the Premier League and perhaps that will drive his decision.
However, game time will be mandatory for Aurier. He’s at the age now where he will crave regular action and the arrival of Montiel throws that into doubt.
Forest star Aurier wanted by Cristiano Ronaldo’s Al Nassr outfit
At this stage, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see Aurier leave Forest. Although he penned a one-year contract this summer, the chance to head to Saudi Arabia might be one he’s keen to take.
If Montiel is going to come in and take his place, who can blame him? Regular football will be something he wants and it will be fascinating to see what happens.
One option could be to play Aurier as a right-sided centre-back. In the short term that could help Forest as they wait for Felipe and Moussa Niakhate to return.
This link does seem a bit surprising still. Although Montiel’s arrival raises questions, Aurier has largely been brilliant since joining Forest
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