Xaver Schlager has completed a move to Nottingham Forest as a free agent, signing a two-year contract with the Premier League club. The Austrian international joins Forest after his contract with RB Leipzig expired, reuniting with manager Oliver Glasner.
Schlager brings a wealth of Bundesliga experience, having featured in 150 league matches for both VfL Wolfsburg and RB Leipzig over the past seven seasons. He initially encountered Glasner during his time at Wolfsburg, before transferring to Leipzig in 2022 for a reported €12 million fee.
Following a significant injury that sidelined him for a period, Schlager finished his spell at Red Bull Arena strongly, contributing to Leipzig’s qualification for the Champions League. He played a key role for Austria at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, appearing in all four of their matches, including a Round of 32 defeat against eventual winners Spain.
Glasner’s appointment at Nottingham Forest earlier this summer is believed to have been a significant factor in Schlager’s decision, with the pair having previously established a working relationship at Wolfsburg. The 28-year-old midfielder will add experience and versatility to Forest’s midfield options as they prepare for the upcoming Premier League season.
Nottingham Forest narrowly avoided relegation last season, finishing just above the drop zone, and are looking to strengthen their squad to ensure a more comfortable campaign. Schlager’s arrival represents a shrewd piece of business for the club, securing a proven player without a transfer fee. This move allows Forest to bolster their midfield depth with a player familiar with European competition.
