Why Nottingham Forest's points deduction could hand Arsenal a perfect transfer opportunity

Arsenal are reportedly keen on bringing Nottingham Forest midfielder Danilo to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

According to HITC, the 22-year-old has been on the Gunners' radar for some time now, dating back to his days at Palmeiras. It is believed the Brazilian could be worth as little as £18m, especially if Forest are relegated from the Premier League.

That's been made a greater reality thanks to the decision by the Premier League earlier this year to deduct points from the East Midlands club, who sit only one point above the bottom three after their controversial defeat to relegation rivals Everton at the weekend.

That defeat and their reaction to it could land the club in even more hot water, with an investigation underway into their post-match statement on Sunday afternoon.

Forest suggested on X that they were considering their options after PGMOL chose to appoint Luton Town fan Stuart Attwell for VAR duty in their clash with Everton. Forest has since argued that the PGMOL should take into account contextual rivalries as well as local ones when appointing match officials.

The Premier League has taken a dim view of Forest's argument, responding: "The Premier League was extremely disappointed to read the comments made by Nottingham Forest on social media yesterday, following its match against Everton. We note The FA has confirmed it will be investigating the club’s statement.

"It is never appropriate to improperly question the integrity of match officials, and the nature of these comments means the Premier League will also be investigating the matter in relation to the League’s Rules." In extreme cases, the league could dish out a further points deduction to Forest. which could in turn increase the chances of their star players moving on.

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Relegation to the Championship would all but guarantee players like Danilo would be sold to get their salaries off the wage bill. At that stage, Arsenal could swoop in.

It is understood Mikel Arteta would not be alone in the race for the central midfielder though as Manchester United, Newcastle and Tottenham Hotspur are also linked.