English Premier League side Nottingham Forest have reportedly entered the race to sign Zimbabwe’s 17-year-old sensation Tadiwanashe Chakuchichi, adding European Premier League stature to the rapidly growing profile of one of Southern Africa’s brightest football prospects.
According to a report by ESPN reporter Leonard Solms, Nottingham Forest are actively monitoring the explosive winger, who made headlines after becoming the youngest player to ever feature at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
"Nottingham Forest are monitoring Zimbabwe winger Tadiwa Chakuchichi — the youngest player at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) — a well-placed source told ESPN," reported Solms.
"Chakuchichi previously went on trial in April at Red Bull Salzburg. Neither Forest nor Salzburg can bring him in from Zimbabwe’s Scottland FC until he turns 18 on June 1, 2027."
Chakuchichi, currently on the books of domestic champions Scottland FC, has generated serious interest across Europe.
Before Forest’s enquiry, Austrian giants Red Bull Salzburg had already invited the teenager for a scouting trial.
The winger’s profile rose significantly through his representation with agency ROC Nation.
Chakuchichi recently returned from Austria where he participated in an elite scouting programme designed to expose young global talents to top-tier European evaluators.
Due to Fifa transfer regulations regarding international minors, neither Forest nor Salzburg can officially complete a transfer until Chakuchichi turns 18 on June 1, 2027.
However, both clubs are positioning themselves early to secure his signature.
Forest’s interest in Chakuchichi aligns with a broader recruitment pivot under their multi-club executive setup led by Chief Football Officer George Syrianos.
ESPN reported that Chakuchichi is one of at least two young talents from the Cosafa (southern Africa) region whom Forest have enquired about—the other being South African center-back Mbekezeli Mbokazi of Chicago Fire FC.
The Premier League club’s scouting in Zimbabwe also follows recent links with Warriors vice-captain Marshall Munetsi, signaling a growing appreciation for Zimbabwean talent in East Midlands.
While European suitors track his development from afar, Chakuchichi’s immediate focus remains on competitive minutes at home.
The 17-year-old is set to join FC Hunters on loan for the remainder of the season. After capturing a league title with Scottland FC, the explosive left-footed winger is seeking regular game time during the second half of the campaign while helping Hunters FC battle against relegation.
The temporary stint gives the young international a crucial platform to maintain match fitness and sharpen his attacking sharpness before his inevitable move overseas.