Nottingham Forest have confirmed the signing of highly rated Brazilian defender Jair Cunha from Botafogo on a long-term deal.

The 20-year-old has penned a five-year contract with the Premier League side, keeping him at the City Ground until the summer of 2030.

Cunha, who only joined Botafogo in February, impressed during his brief stint with the Brazilian club, notably scoring in their 2–1 victory over Seattle Sounders at the FIFA Club World Cup.

The young defender becomes Forest’s second acquisition from Botafogo in quick succession, following the arrival of Brazilian striker Igor Jesus in a reported £10 million deal.

Speaking on the signing, Forest’s Chief Football Officer, Ross Wilson, expressed his satisfaction with the deal.

“Jair is a young talent who has shown quality during his time in Brazil, and we are happy to have secured his signature

“He has flourished in Brazil and now has new ambitions as he moves to the Premier League. We know he will be warmly welcomed into the group here in Nottingham.”he said

Cunha began his professional career at Santos, making 24 appearances before moving to Botafogo.

On the international stage, Cunha has represented Brazil at the U20 level, earning eight caps and playing a key role in the team’s U20 South America Championship triumph earlier this year.

His arrival came at a time when Nottingham Forest were considering high profile departure.