Luca Netz struggles at Forest raise doubts over January move

Nottingham Forest’s Luca Netz situation is already drawing scrutiny, with reports from Germany suggesting the January signing has struggled to make any meaningful impact.

The 22-year-old arrived from Borussia Mönchengladbach for around €2.5m in January 2026, signing a long-term deal until 2030. According to Gladbach LIVE, the move “hasn’t paid off” so far, with the defender finding himself on the fringes just weeks into his Premier League spell.

What was initially viewed as a low-risk investment with long-term upside is now facing early questions as the season approaches its decisive phase.

Since Vítor Pereira’s arrival, Nottingham Forest have shifted towards experience as they battle to avoid relegation. That has left little room for experimentation, particularly in defensive areas.

Based on recent matches we’ve covered, Pereira has consistently preferred established options, prioritising reliability over long-term development. As a result, Netz has remained largely unused despite being available.

For a player who moved to England seeking progression, the situation represents a difficult adjustment period.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions about his long-term role at the club.

German outlet Gladbach LIVE have taken a stronger stance, describing the transfer as a “complete disaster” in its early stages.

While such assessments may reflect frustration from a German perspective, the lack of minutes does raise legitimate questions about the timing of the move. Netz joined a team already under pressure, where opportunities for adaptation are naturally limited.

That context is important when assessing both the player’s performances and the club’s expectations.

Attention is already turning towards the summer transfer window, where Netz’s future could become a key talking point.

If Nottingham Forest are relegated, a broader squad reshaping is expected. In that scenario, players with limited involvement and long contracts could be moved on quickly.

Even if the club retains its Premier League status, reports suggest a summer exit may still be considered if his situation does not improve.

Borussia Mönchengladbach are monitoring developments closely due to their sell-on clause. With the defender currently valued at around €6m, any transfer would generate a return for the German side.

Netz’s short-term future will depend on whether he can break into the squad before the end of the season. With Nottingham Forest focused on survival, opportunities may remain limited unless injuries or suspensions force changes.

The summer window is likely to be decisive. Both relegation and survival scenarios could trigger movement, with the club expected to reassess squad balance. Any decision will also be influenced by transfer interest and financial considerations linked to his long-term contract.

Has Nottingham Forest moved too quickly with Luca Netz, or does he still deserve time to prove himself?