Nottingham Forest close in on deal for Pablo Maffeo: Return to England on the cards

Nottingham Forest are on the verge of completing a move for Real Mallorca wing-back Pablo Maffeo, marking a potential return to English football for the Spanish-born defender. The 27-year-old, who currently plays for the La Liga outfit, has become a key target for Forest as they look to strengthen their defensive options ahead of the new Premier League season.

According to reports from Spanish outlet El Chiringuito, Nottingham Forest have submitted a formal offer of €6 million for Maffeo, and it is believed that personal terms between the club and the player have already been agreed. While the final details are still being negotiated between the two clubs, sources close to the deal suggest that an agreement is imminent.

Maffeo has built a strong reputation in Spain over recent seasons, most notably during his time at Real Mallorca. Since joining the Balearic club, he has made 128 appearances, scoring 4 goals and providing 13 assists. Known for his pace, defensive tenacity, and ability to contribute in the attacking third, Maffeo has been one of Mallorca’s standout performers. His consistent displays on the right flank have drawn attention from multiple European clubs, but it appears Nottingham Forest are now leading the race for his signature.

Interestingly, this move would not be Maffeo’s first taste of English football. He spent a significant portion of his formative years within Manchester City’s academy, where he developed his skills and gained valuable experience in one of Europe’s most elite footballing environments. Although he did not make a major breakthrough into City’s first team, he did feature in a handful of senior matches, including a standout performance against Manchester United in the EFL Cup in 2016.

Euro Football Rumours

Following his stint in England, Maffeo returned to Spain to seek more regular first-team football. Spells with Girona, Stuttgart (on loan), and eventually Real Mallorca have seen him grow into a reliable and experienced fullback.

Another point of interest in Maffeo’s story is his international career. Though he previously represented Spain at youth levels, earning five caps with the Spain U21 team, he has now pledged his international allegiance to Argentina. With dual nationality, Maffeo has opted to pursue a senior international future with the South American giants, a decision that reflects his heritage and personal aspirations.

For Nottingham Forest, the potential acquisition of Pablo Maffeo could prove to be a smart move. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo is looking to revamp the squad after a turbulent previous campaign, and Maffeo’s versatility and experience could provide a much-needed boost in both defense and attack.

As the deal edges closer to completion, Forest fans will be hopeful that Maffeo can adapt quickly to the Premier League and bring the same level of energy and consistency he demonstrated in Spain. A return to England, this time as a seasoned professional, might just be the perfect platform for the wing-back to reach new heights in his career.

For all transfer rumors, news and much more regarding European football stay tuned to us at eurofootballrumours.com.

To stay up to date on the latest from Euro Football Rumours on social media, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

The content of this article does not reflect the official opinion of the eurofootballrumours.com. Responsibility for the information and views expressed in the article lies entirely with the author.

Would you like to see Nottingham Forest sign Pablo Maffeo?

Bologna-born Giuseppe Bianchi has spent more than a decade living in Rome and writing about Italian football, Spanish football and the Premier League for various Italian football portals and now he writes about European football for Euro Football Rumours. He's been thinking about football transfers pretty much nonstop since the 1990 FIFA World Cup in Italy. Aside from writing, he likes to spend his time fishing and rock climbing.