Iconic European club interested in Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo

Italian giants Roma are interested in Nottingham Forest boss Nuno Espirito Santo, talkSPORT understands.

No talks have been held between Roma and Nuno’s camp, but there is genuine admiration at the end of the Serie A club.

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Nuno had already been targeted by Saudi club Al Hilal, but the Forest boss is understood to be reluctant to return to the country.

Prior to his appointment at Forest, Nuno was in charge of Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad and led them to the league title as well as the Saudi Super Cup.

However, he was axed by the club in November 2023.

Roma, who play at the iconic Stadio Olimpico, are seeking a permanent replacement for Claudio Ranieri, who is acting as interim head coach until the end of the 2024/25 season.

Ranieri has Roma in fifth on 66 points, one behind Juventus who occupy the fourth and final Champions League qualification spot in Serie A.

The 73-year-old, who famously guided Leicester City to the unlikeliest of Premier League titles in the 2015/16 campaign, was treated to a touching tribute from Roma’s supporters last Sunday as his side ran out 3-1 winners over AC Milan.

Prior to kick-off, Roma supporters held up placards to reveal a message of gratitude that covered the entire Curva Sud to thank Ranieri.

Similarly to Ranieri, Nuno has become an instant hit with Forest fans as he has the club on the verge of a return to European football after 30 years away.

At a minimum, Forest will compete in either the Europa League or the Europa Conference League as they sit seventh on 65 points going into the final day on Sunday.

However, Nuno’s side could finish the season as high as third should results go their way.

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Forest face Chelsea, who are fourth on 66 points on the final day.

A win against the Blues would ensure Forest will play in next season’s Europa League.

But to qualify for the Champions League, Forest must beat Chelsea and hope Aston Villa don’t beat Manchester United on the final day.

It would complete a remarkable turnaround for Forest under Nuno given he took over when the two-time European champions were in 17th place and five points clear of the relegation zone.

Forest ultimately finished the 2023/24 season in 17th and six points clear of relegation, although they were deducted four points for breaching the Premier League’s profit and sustainability rules (PSR).

The former Wolves boss’ first full campaign at the City Ground has been a thrilling one having also reached the FA Cup semi-finals.

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More to follow…