Key Takeaways:
- Nottingham Forest have identified Marco Silva as a potential long-term managerial candidate
- Ange Postecoglou remains under pressure after failing to secure a win in his first seven matches
- Marco Silva has an £8million release clause in his Fulham contract, which expires next summer
Silva Targeted as Postecoglou Faces Pressure
Nottingham Forest have reportedly set their sights on Fulham boss Marco Silva as a long-term managerial target. The Portuguese manager’s contract at Craven Cottage is due to expire next summer. Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis is said to be considering Silva as a potential successor to current head coach Ange Postecoglou, should a change be made at the City Ground.
🚨 Fulham manager Marco Silva is a long-term target for Nottingham Forest should they sack Ange Postecoglou.
However, an approach for the Portuguese is unlikely to happen before the end of the season.
(Source: @MailSport) pic.twitter.com/otzFb2QPBb
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) October 7, 2025
Postecoglou’s Struggles and Uncertain Future
Ange Postecoglou’s tenure at Nottingham Forest has started poorly, with the former Tottenham manager failing to win any of his first seven matches in charge. Among these, five have ended in defeat. The most recent loss, against Newcastle at the weekend, has reportedly heightened the scrutiny, leading to crucial discussions between Postecoglou and Marinakis. There remains a possibility that Postecoglou could be relieved of his duties during the international break.
Silva’s Record and Contract Situation
Since his appointment at Fulham in July 2021, Marco Silva has overseen 193 matches, achieving 85 victories. Although his current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, Silva has yet to commit to a renewal. An immediate approach appears challenging due to an £8million release clause in Silva’s contract. This considerable figure is believed to have dissuaded West Ham from pursuing him earlier in the year when they selected Graham Potter to succeed Julen Lopetegui.
| Manager | Current Club | Contract Expiry | Matches Managed | Wins | Release Clause |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marco Silva | Fulham | Summer 2025 | 193 | 85 | £8,000,000 |
Compensation Challenges and Alternative Options
Marinakis, throughout his eight-year stewardship at Forest, has refrained from appointing managers directly from other clubs, largely to avoid substantial compensation payments. That stance is expected to continue, particularly given the size of Silva’s release clause and his impending free agent status next summer. If Postecoglou is dismissed this month, Forest’s next move remains uncertain.
Benitez Linked with Return to Management
Former Liverpool and Chelsea manager Rafa Benitez was seen alongside Marinakis at the City Ground last month. Benitez, who departed Celta Vigo in 2024, reportedly maintains a strong relationship with the Forest owner and is understood to be open to a return to management.
