Nottingham Forest has finalized the acquisition of Austria international Xaver Schlager on a free transfer after reaching a complete agreement with the player.
Softfootball reports that Schlager has signed a contract that runs until June 2028, with an option for the club to extend for an additional year, until June 2029. The 28-year-old has successfully passed his medical examination, paving the way for the official announcement.
This transfer comes after early indications that Forest was eager to secure one of the top free agents available this summer.
Schlager joins Forest after his contract with RB Leipzig ended, bringing valuable international experience to Nuno Espírito Santo’s midfield. Known for his diligence, ability to win the ball, and calmness under pressure, the Austrian is anticipated to enhance leadership and skill within Forest’s squad for the upcoming season.
This transfer also concludes the rumors regarding his future connecting Schlager with Juventus, who were reportedly considering the midfielder as a potential free-agent signing. The Italian club has allegedly been assessing his profile internally since January in the context of exploring midfield additions for the summer.
Nevertheless, Nottingham Forest has emerged victorious in the pursuit of his signature, moving swiftly to finalize the transaction before competitors could intervene.
The acquisition highlights Forest’s strategy to enhance their midfield through experienced players as they gear up for another season in the Premier League, while Schlager embarks on a new journey in English football following several successful years in Germany.
