Nottingham Forest have completed their first signing of the summer by acquiring the services of Red Star Belgrade midfielder Marko Stamenic.
While the East Midlands outfit need to ensure that they comply with the Premier League's Profit and Sustainability Rules, a wide array of releases and players returning to loan clubs has created space on the wage bill.
Rather than take advantage of that and move for a higher-profile name, Forest have pushed through a deal for someone who they hope will impress at the City Ground from next season onwards.
Stamenic has been signed to a five-year contract, but he will spent the first of those out on loan at Greek club Olympiacos.
Coventry City had been heavily linked with the 22-year-old, but he has instead opted to link up with a fellow Midlands side and secure European football for next season.
A total of 35 appearances were made last season, including one against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in the Champions League.
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Alexis Sanchez in line for reunion
Meanwhile, Alexis Sanchez could take the next step of his storied career by reuniting with one of his former clubs.
The 35-year-old has just played a bit-part role for Inter Milan making 10 starts and 23 substitute appearances in all competitions.
However, the veteran is leaving San Siro on a free transfer and it appears that a fellow Italian side are interested in his services.
As per journalist Gianluca di Marzio, Udinese are in discussions with the attacker regarding a return to the Bluenergy Stadium.
Sanchez spent three seasons at Udinese between 2008 and 2011, scoring 21 goals from 112 appearances before earning a transfer to Barcelona.
Udinese only survived in Serie A this campaign through a strong run-in, accumulating nine points from their final five matches.
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Leeds United suffer transfer blow
In the Championship, Leeds United have reportedly held an interest in trying to retain the services of Joe Rodon in the long term.
The Wales international made 50 appearances for the Yorkshire giants on loan from Tottenham Hotspur during 2023-24, now returning to North London.
Spurs are eager to cash in on the 26-year-old now that he only has 12 months remaining on his contract, and he is not short of admirers.
According to Football Insider, that will not work out in the favour of Leeds with Rodon expected to sign for a Premier League club.
Leicester City, Ipswich Town and Southampton have all been linked with the centre-back since earning promotion to the top flight.
A price of £10m has previously been mentioned, although it is unclear whether any of the aforementioned teams are willing to go that high.
Darren Plant
