With Nuno Espírito Santo now at the helm of West Ham United, the club is poised for a tactical overhaul especially in defence. After inheriting a side that has conceded more goals than any other in the Premier League this season, Nuno’s priority is clear: Reinforce the backline. One name that stands out and is reportedly of interest is Serbian international Nikola Milenkovic.
Milenkovic was a cornerstone of Nuno’s defensive setup at Nottingham Forest last season, starting over 35 league matches and helping the club secure European qualification. His understanding of Nuno’s system makes him a natural candidate to slot into West Ham’s troubled defence.
Ironically, the Serbian international nearly joined West Ham in 2021 when the centre back was available for a cut price deal as his contract was due to expire. Yet, despite discussions with the player and his agent, talks broke down over personal terms and the club moved onto sign Kurt Zouma.
Milenkovic subsequently signed a contract extension with Fiorentina and was in the team that lost to West Ham in the UEFA Europa Conference final.
He did however get his move to the Premier League signing a five year contract with Nottingham Forest in 2024, for a transfer fee of approximately £12m. On a reported £105k a week, Milenkovic is one of Forest’s highest earners.
Aerial prowess essential for West Ham’s winter recruit
Milenkovic’s aerial prowess and ability to marshal the back post an area where West Ham has repeatedly been exposed would immediately address one of the team’s most glaring weaknesses. His presence could also stabilise the goalkeeper situation, giving whoever starts between the posts a more commanding defensive shield.
Nuno’s success at Forest was built on a settled defensive unit. At West Ham, he’s inheriting a squad plagued by inconsistency and tactical confusion. Milenkovic offers not just quality but continuity, a player who knows what Nuno demands and can help implement it from day one.
It remains uncertain whether Ange Postecoglou will be willing to part ways with the defender during the January transfer window. However, the West Ham board have made it clear there will be transfer funds available in January, and have publicly stated they will back Nuno.
Much will depend on whether his current centre backs improve between now and January, Max Kilman did have a better second half against Everton, yet there are many more difficult fixtures ahead.
Good luck with getting any decent players away from Nottingham Forest.
I can’t see Forest parting with Milenkovic for less than £50m especially to us.
I doubt we will have that sort of money to spend and surely our priority will be centre forward in his prime
It all makes total sense
I have a hard time thinking that Forest would be willing to sell one of their nailed-on starting CD’s in January for less than a sizeable profit. Agree that this signing would make sense but don’t see it being completed.