Nottingham Forest has added Austrian midfielder Xaver Schlager as a free agent, signing him to a contract that runs for two years with an option for a third. The move, confirmed by the club on Tuesday, gives manager Nuno Espírito Santo another option in central midfield without spending a transfer fee.
Why the deal works for Forest
Schlager, 27, arrives after his contract with RB Leipzig expired this summer. He brings top-flight experience from the Bundesliga and the Champions League, where he made over 100 appearances for Leipzig and previously for Wolfsburg. For Forest, which has invested heavily in new players over the past two transfer windows, the free transfer offers a cost-effective way to add depth.
The club's midfield already includes Morgan Gibbs-White, Ryan Yates, and Danilo, but Schlager's arrival gives Espírito Santo a different profile — a box-to-box midfielder who can break up play and carry the ball forward. His versatility means he can slot into a double pivot or play as a more advanced central midfielder.
What Schlager brings to the squad
Schlager is known for his work rate and tactical discipline. At Leipzig, he often played in a high-pressing system under Marco Rose, which aligns with the intensity Espírito Santo demands. He also adds experience in European competition, something Forest will need if they aim to push for a top-half finish or a cup run.
Injuries have been a concern for Schlager — he missed significant time last season with a knee issue — but Forest's medical staff cleared him after a full preseason. The club believes he can stay fit with careful management.
Financial prudence in a busy market
Forest has been one of the Premier League's most active spenders since promotion, but this signing signals a shift toward value. By landing Schlager on a free, the club avoids a transfer fee and can allocate resources elsewhere. The contract structure, with a club option for a third year, also limits long-term risk.
The move comes as Forest looks to balance its books while staying competitive. The club has already brought in several players this summer, including goalkeeper Carlos Miguel and defender Nikola Milenković, but Schlager's arrival addresses a specific need without straining the wage bill.
Potential impact on the Premier League campaign
Forest finished 17th last season, narrowly avoiding relegation. Adding a player of Schlager's caliber — he has 43 caps for Austria and played in Euro 2024 — could help the team push higher up the table. His ability to win second balls and start attacks from deep fits the style Espírito Santo wants to implement.
The club has not yet announced Schlager's squad number or when he will make his debut. He is expected to join full training this week and could be available for selection in the next Premier League match, pending international clearance.
