NewKerala.com

Key Points

Nottingham Forest have completed the signing of Brazilian defender Jair Cunha from Botafogo on a five-year deal. The 20-year-old impressed at the U20 South America Championship, helping Brazil lift the trophy. Cunha, who stands at 6ft 6, brings defensive strength and youth potential to Forest’s squad. The club’s Chief Football Officer, Ross Wilson, hailed the signing as a key addition ahead of the new season.

Key Points: Nottingham Forest Sign Brazilian Defender Jair Cunha From Botafogo

  • Jair Cunha joins Forest from Botafogo on a five-year contract
  • The 20-year-old defender starred in Brazil’s U20 South America Championship win
  • Standing at 6ft 6, Cunha brings height and defensive solidity
  • Forest’s Ross Wilson praises Cunha’s potential ahead of Premier League move
2 min read

Nottingham Forest sign Brazil's Jair Cunha on five-year contract

Nottingham Forest secure Brazilian defender Jair Cunha on a five-year deal after his standout performances for Botafogo and Brazil U20s.

"Jair is a young talent who has shown quality during his time in Brazil, and we are happy to have secured his signature. – Ross Wilson"

West Bridgford, July 11

Nottingham Forest have signed Brazilian defender Jair Cunha from Botafogo on a five-year contract which keeps him at the City Ground until at least the summer of 2030. The 20-year-old defender joins having just returned from the FIFA Club World Cup with Botafogo, reaching the Round of 16 and scoring in their opening fixture against Seattle Sounders.

Jair started his career at Brazilian side Santos from the age of 10, working his way up through their youth ranks before finally breaking into the First Team as an 18-year-old in the Campeonato Brasileiro Série A. He went on to make 24 senior appearances with Santos before moving to Botafogo in February 2025.

The 20-year-old central defender, who is known for his height, standing at 6ft 6, also has experience with Brazil’s youth setup with eight appearances for his country at the Under-20 level, helping Canarinha to the U20 South America Championship crown earlier this year.

Jair missed just one game at the tournament, completing the full 90 minutes in each of his eight matches, helping his nation keep three clean sheets along the way to the title.

Forest’s Chief Football Officer, Ross Wilson, said. "Jair is a young talent who has shown quality during his time in Brazil, and we are happy to have secured his signature.

“Jair has flourished in Brazil and now has new ambitions as he moves to the Premier League. We know he will be warmly welcomed into the group here in Nottingham.”

Nottingham Forest will face Ligue 1 side AS Monaco in Chesterfield before travelling to southern Portugal for a warm-weather training camp later this month as part of the club’s pre-season preparations.

The Reds will play two additional friendlies as part of the trip, facing Estoril Praia and fellow Premier League side, Fulham.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

A
Ananya R
As an Indian football fan, it's exciting to see young talents getting global recognition. Hope he becomes as successful as other Brazilian defenders in EPL history!
S
Sarah B
At 6'6", he'll be a nightmare for attackers in set pieces! But I worry if he's too tall for the fast-paced Premier League. Hope Forest's coaching staff works on his agility.
V
Vikram M
Another Brazilian export to Europe! When will our Indian players get such big moves? ISL needs to develop talents who can compete at this level. 🤔
K
Kavya N
Five-year contract shows Forest's long-term vision. But pressure will be high - Brazilian defenders have big shoes to fill in Premier League after the likes of Thiago Silva!
M
Michael C
Interesting signing but Forest need experienced players more than prospects right now. Hope this doesn't turn out to be another gamble that backfires in relegation battle.
P
Priya S
His U20 South America Championship performance was impressive! Hope he brings that winning mentality to Forest. Would love to see him play against Indian teams if they ever have a friendly here!

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50