Jota Silva set to reject Leeds approach for Portugal return with Nottingham Forest set to accept Sporting CP offer

Silva is poised to join Sporting CP after the Portuguese giants submitted a formal loan offer with a performance-related option to buy. According to a report from Portuguese newspaper A Bola, Forest are expected to accept the deal, with the 26-year-old set to reject an approach from Premier League rivals Leeds United in favour of a return to his homeland.

The move would see Silva choose Champions League football with Sporting over the chance to remain in England with Leeds. The player is reportedly excited by the prospect of working again with manager Rui Borges and competing for the Portuguese title. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis had initially preferred a permanent sale for the player they signed for €7 million last summer, but is now believed to be satisfied with the structured loan deal for a player who has fallen out of favour under Nuno Espirito Santo.

A key motivation for Silva's decision is the 2026 World Cup. The winger believes a successful, high-profile season at Sporting will significantly boost his chances of earning a recall to Roberto Martinez's Portugal squad. He has two international caps but lost his place after becoming a fringe player at the City Ground.

With super-agent Jorge Mendes mediating, the transfer now awaits final approval from Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis. However, with the player keen on the move and the clubs close to an agreement, the deal is expected to be completed before the transfer window closes. Jota Silva has played just 17 minutes for Forest in the Premier League this season.