Nicolo Savona: Nottingham Forest sign Juventus defender

Nottingham Forest have signed Italian defender Nicolo Savona from Juventus on a five-year deal worth up to £13.4m (15.5m euros).

The 22-year-old becomes Forest’s ninth signing of the summer, with the club busy since manager Nuno Espirito Santo questioned their recruitment before the new season.

Savona, who has been at Juventus since he was eight, joins for an initial £11.2m (13m euros) with £2.2m (2.5m euros) in possible add-ons, the Italian club said in a statement.

He made his senior debut last season and played 40 games in all competitions for Juventus across Serie A, the Champions League and the Club World Cup.

Savona operates primarily as a right-back, but can also play in central defence and as a left-back.

His performances last season earned him a call-up to the Italy squad, though he did not make an appearance.

He follows Douglas Luiz to Forest from Juventus after the Brazil midfielder joined on a season-long loan.

“I am very excited to be here. It is a new experience for me as a person and a player. It is such a historic club, and the move is a dream come true,” said Savona.

Chief football officer Ross Wilson said Savona was a “versatile player who will be another strong option in our defensive unit” who “understands the demands of playing for a big club”.

Forest’s big signings this summer include winger Omari Hutchinson from Ipswich for £37.5m, midfielder James McAtee from Manchester City for close to £30m, Rennes striker Arnaud Kalimuendo for a reported initial fee of £26m and Bologna winger Dan Ndoye for £35m.

They have also bought striker Igor Jesus and defender Jair Cunha from Botafogo, Luiz and goalkeeper Angus Gunn from Norwich.

Forest will play in the Europa League this season in their first European campaign in 30 years.