Wales international Neco Williams [an initial £10 million from Liverpool] and centre-back Andrew Omobamidele [£11 million from Norwich] also represent the youthful core of the squad with their best years ahead of them.
Forest remain under the threat of breaching profitability and sustainability rules [PSR] this summer, and there may need to be a reluctant sale or two to fall in line with regulations.
Yet the club believe most of their signings have increased in value which allows them to set realistic prices.
Ahead of next season, regardless of what division Forest find themselves in, the template will remain the same.
In January, Nuno insisted on the squad becoming more balanced and aligned.
Forest intend to lower the average age of the squad and continue to buy up and coming young talent from across Europe and beyond. The average age is now 23 excluding goalkeepers.
There is a recognition that since promotion the perceived ‘big name signings’ such as Jesse Lingard and Divock Origi have not worked out.
Forest will spend again this summer, though there will be clear restrictions.
A number of big earners including Felipe, Cheikhou Kouyate, Harry Arter and Wayne Hennessey will also depart as free agents this summer.
Improvements will continue to be made at the training ground. It has been recognised outside the club that Forest have made key changes to culture, staffing, structure and organisation. Major changes have been made to the academy, which remains Category 1.
Evangelos Marinakis, the club’s owner, is still intent on Forest ultimately establishing themselves as a top-10 club.
After such an excruciating season, which has been defined by anger over refereeing and VAR decisions, plus the points deduction, the focus is on putting this campaign to bed and building for a brighter future.