In a surprising turn of events, veteran striker Jamie Vardy is poised to make a sensational move to Nottingham Forest on a free transfer. The former Leicester City star is expected to sign a two-year deal with Forest, bringing his wealth of Premier League experience and goal-scoring prowess to the City Ground.
Sources close to the deal have confirmed that personal terms have been agreed, with only a medical left to finalize the move. The 38-year-old forward, who spent over a decade with Leicester City and played a pivotal role in their remarkable 2015–16 Premier League title win, will reportedly don the iconic red jersey of Nottingham Forest starting from the 2025/26 season.
Vardy, whose contract with Leicester expired at the end of last season, was the subject of interest from multiple clubs, both in England and abroad. However, he has opted to stay in the Premier League, choosing Forest as his next destination. Manager Nuno Espírito Santo is believed to have played a key role in convincing Vardy to join the club, emphasizing the striker’s importance in his attacking plans for the upcoming campaign.
Vardy’s arrival signals Forest’s ambition to not only remain in the Premier League but also push for a top-half finish. With his experience, leadership, and tenacity, Vardy is expected to play a dual role at the club—contributing on the pitch as a clinical finisher and off it as a mentor to Forest’s younger forwards.
The former England international leaves behind a legendary legacy at Leicester. Signed from then non-league side Fleetwood Town in 2012 for just £1 million, Vardy defied expectations to become one of the Premier League’s most feared strikers. He scored 136 goals in 307 league appearances for the Foxes and was central to their fairy-tale title run, during which he famously scored in 11 consecutive matches—a Premier League record at the time.
His leadership qualities and big-game mentality will be vital for a Forest side looking to stabilize in the top flight. While questions remain about his age and ability to sustain peak fitness, Vardy has continued to show glimpses of his sharpness, ending last season with 9 goals in all competitions despite limited starts.
Nottingham Forest fans have reacted positively to the news, expressing excitement about welcoming a player of Vardy’s caliber. The move is expected to bring increased attention to the club, both from the media and supporters alike. The club is also believed to be working on additional signings to strengthen the squad before the transfer window closes.
Jamie Vardy is set to wear the number 11 shirt at Forest, and could make his competitive debut in the opening fixture of the Premier League season next month. If all goes according to plan, Vardy’s arrival could be one of the most talked-about transfers of the summer—and potentially one of the most impactful.