Former Nottingham Forest Defender Completes Medical for MLS Move to Join Zaha and Smith
Former Nottingham Forest Defender Harry Toffolo Nears MLS Move
By Simon Jones | Updated: 18:10 BST, 2 August 2025
Former Nottingham Forest defender Harry Toffolo is finalizing a move to MLS side Charlotte FC, undergoing a medical ahead of signing a three-year deal. The 29-year-old left-back, a free agent after his Forest contract expired this summer, is set to join ex-Aston Villa manager Dean Smith in the United States.
Toffolo made just seven appearances for Forest last season, including four in the Premier League, and expressed frustration over his limited role. Leicester City also showed interest, but the England U20 international opted for a fresh start in the MLS.
Harry Toffolo during his time at Nottingham Forest.
Charlotte’s Vision Under Dean Smith
Charlotte FC, currently 10th in the Eastern Conference, aim to bolster their defense under Smith’s leadership. Toffolo’s experience in England’s top flight and Championship—spanning clubs like Huddersfield, Lincoln, and Millwall—adds depth to their roster. However, he won’t feature in Monday’s Leagues Cup clash against Guadalajara due to work permit delays.
Forest’s Transfer Activity
Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest continues reshaping their squad. After signing Swiss forward Dan Ndoye from Bologna, they’re in talks for Fulham’s Adama Traoré and eyeing Southampton’s Matheus Fernandes and Juventus midfielder Douglas Luiz. These moves signal Forest’s ambition to avoid another relegation battle.
Wilfried Zaha, who joined Charlotte FC earlier this year.
Toffolo’s New Teammates
In Charlotte, Toffolo will reunite with former Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha, who joined the club in 2024. The pair’s Premier League pedigree could elevate Charlotte’s playoff hopes. Smith praised Toffolo’s “versatility and professionalism,” key traits for a squad seeking consistency.
A Fresh Chapter
For Toffolo, the move marks a chance to reignite his career after a stagnant season. Known for his work ethic and crossing ability, he’ll aim to replicate his 2022/23 form, where he helped Forest secure top-flight survival.
Stay tuned for updates on Premier League transfers and MLS developments.
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Images: Daily Mail, Getty Images | Words: ~300 (condensed from original)
