Serbian star Milenkovic joins Nottingham Forest in major transfer move

Nottingham Forest have made a significant addition to their squad by signing Serbian center-back Nikola Milenkovic from Fiorentina.

The Premier League club confirmed the five-year deal on Thursday, marking the end of Milenkovic's seven-year stay with the Italian side.

Milenkovic, 26, brings a wealth of experience to Forest, having earned 57 international caps and played every minute of Serbia's Euro 2024 campaign.

He made 264 appearances for Fiorentina, contributing 17 goals and five assists, and helped the team reach the Europa Conference League final in May.

Forest's chief football officer, Ross Wilson, insisted the signing is a real statement of intent.

We have long admired his performances with the Serbian national team, and in Serie A and European competitions for Fiorentina. He is a key part of our squad planning this summer, and I know how enthusiastic he has been to join.

Who is Niokla Milenkovic? Position, playing style and career

Milenkovic fits the profile Forest was seeking for a new center-back. He is strong, dominant, and within the desired age bracket of 18-26.

His arrival fills the gap after the club sold defender Moussa Niakhate to Lyon for £27 million ($35 million). Milenkovic started his career at Partizan Belgrade before joining Fiorentina in 2017.

Milenkovic is expected to play a central role in Forest's defense as they gear up for their first Premier League match of the season against Bournemouth on August 17.

In addition to Milenkovic, Forest have also signed Shae Cahill, son of former Everton and Australia forward Tim Cahill.

The 19-year-old midfielder, who last played for Brisbane Roar in the A-League, will initially join Forest's B team.