Super Eagles striker Taiwo Awoniyi has attracted interest from Caykur Rizespor of the Turkish Super Lig as he seeks regular playing time. The 29-year-old featured in only 17 Premier League matches for Nottingham Forest during the 2025/26 season, scoring four goals and providing one assist. Persistent injuries limited his involvement, and he was not registered for Forest's UEFA Europa League campaign.
Awoniyi only returned to the Premier League squad after Ola Aina's injury opened a spot, with Igor Jesus and Chris Wood preferred ahead of him in the attacking lineup. Despite featuring in pre-season matches, it remains uncertain whether he has secured a place under new manager Oliver Gleaner. Rizespor, aiming to bolster their attack for the upcoming season, have identified Awoniyi as a potential signing.
Awoniyi's pursuit of playing time contrasts with his exclusion from Forest's European campaign despite pre-season visibility. His potential exit hinges on whether Gleaner views him as a league-level option or surplus to requirements. If a move to Rizespor materializes, it would mark a shift from Premier League margins to likely central responsibility in Turkey.
Editorial note: AI-assisted opinion, not established fact. Full disclaimer →
