Nottingham Forest close to free transfer for Steven Benda with medical set

Nottingham Forest are closing in on the free signing of former Fulham goalkeeper Steven Benda, with the player due to undergo a medical on Friday. John Percy understands that Benda is being lined up to provide additional cover in the goalkeeping department.

The move would be a no-fee addition, and the scheduling of a medical points to an advanced stage of negotiations. However, until the checks are completed and terms are finalised, the deal remains short of confirmation. The reported plan is for Benda to bolster depth rather than immediately challenge the established order, indicating Forest’s focus on ensuring adequate options across the squad.

The same report adds that Forest are exploring further business before the transfer deadline, specifically at centre-forward and right wing-back. Any pursuit in those positions is expected to be selective, with the club prepared to act only if targets are judged to be clear upgrades on current options.

As it stands, Benda’s prospective arrival would address short-term cover in goal and give Forest flexibility as they assess opportunities elsewhere in the market. A medical typically precedes the final green light on paperwork and registration, so the process in the coming days will determine whether the deal can be completed in time for the new season’s opening weeks.

Forest’s stance on their remaining priorities suggests a measured approach to the final stretch of the window. If the conditions outlined are met, the club could yet add a striker and a right-sided defender to Steve Cooper’s squad. For now, attention centres on Benda’s checks and the prospect of a swift free transfer if all goes to plan.