Move to Midlands rivals expected after four years at the City Ground
Nottingham Forest are preparing to part company with one of their most memorable forwards of the recent era after reports suggested Taiwo Awoniyi is closing in on a permanent move to newly promoted Coventry City. The transfer is understood to be subject to a medical and final paperwork.
The Nigeria international, who arrived at the City Ground in the summer of 2022 for a then-club record fee, leaves with a string of high-profile moments to his name and more than 100 appearances for Forest. Sources indicate the fee involved is in the region of £17 million, a sum that reflects Coventry's ambition as they prepare for their first top-flight season in 25 years.
- Awoniyi joined Nottingham Forest in 2022 for a club-record fee (reported at about £17.2m at the time).
- He made just over 100 appearances for Forest, contributing goals and important match-winning performances.
- The move to Coventry is reported to be a permanent transfer pending medical clearance, with the deal finalised ahead of the new season.
Awoniyi quickly established himself as a fan favourite after his arrival, producing vital goals in pressure moments that helped secure Forest's place in the Premier League in his debut campaign. His record at the club includes several striking performances in big matches, notably decisive winners and influential displays against some of the division's top sides.
He will leave the City Ground after four years and is expected to finalise his departure pending a successful medical examination.
Despite those high points, the forward's role diminished last season amid a combination of injuries and increased competition for the striker positions. He featured fewer times than in earlier seasons — making a limited number of Premier League starts — but retained the ability to change games when called upon off the bench. His most eye-catching contributions included a two-goal and one-assist performance in a 3-1 victory at Stamford Bridge and further important goals that helped Forest in the relegation battle.
Forest's attacking roster has grown, leaving the 29-year-old with fewer guaranteed opportunities to lead the line. Current competition for forward places includes several options who have emerged under the club's new management, and pre-season appearances suggested Awoniyi might not be first choice at the start of the campaign.
| Metric | Figures for Forest (to date) |
|---|---|
| Total appearances | 103 |
| Goals | 23 |
| Assists | 6 |
For Coventry, the reported capture of Awoniyi is part of an aggressive summer transfer window that has seen the club invest heavily as they prepare for Premier League football after a long absence. The Sky Blues have already broken their own transfer records in the window, signalling intent to retain top-flight status. Manager Frank Lampard is reported to have played a significant role in identifying and pushing for forwards to strengthen his squad.
For Nottingham supporters, the departure marks the end of a chapter. Awoniyi provided some of the most vivid attacking memories at the City Ground in recent seasons and will leave remembered for his knack for key goals. At the same time, Forest move into a new season with different attacking options and a new manager shaping the squad ahead of another demanding campaign.
The club and player are expected to complete the formalities in the coming days. Supporters will watch closely for official confirmation from both clubs and for an update on any further moves as the transfer window continues to evolve.
