Nottingham Forest Secure Donnell McNeilly from Chelsea, Send Him on Loan to Wycombe

Nottingham Forest have signed young striker Donnell McNeilly from Chelsea. The 19-year-old is now moving to Wycombe Wanderers on a season-long loan.

WHAT HAPPENED?

McNeilly has joined Forest permanently after declining to renew his Chelsea contract. The London-born forward, who signed his first professional deal in 2022 and impressed at under-21 level, was keen to play regularly and is now embarking on a new chapter. Having signed a three-year contract, Forest have sent McNeilly to League One side Wycombe Wanderers for the 2025-26 season, allowing him to experience senior football sooner and secure valuable playing time.

WHY THIS MOVE MATTERS

Forest want to develop young players as part of a long-term plan, especially after some difficulties in the Premier League. Currently in the middle of the table in the top-flight standings, Forest want to improve their squad for the long-term. McNeilly was one of Chelsea’s brightest forward prospects, as a top scorer at youth level, but he struggled to find a way into their senior team.

Wycombe Wanderers have endured their own problems in front of goal and believe McNeilly could help. The League One club are 18th in the table after five matches and sit just above the drop zone, having recorded three draws. It is a mutually beneficial opportunity for the clubs and for McNeilly, who can help Forest freshen up their first-team forward line in the future if he is successful on loan.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR THE CLUBS AND PLAYER

McNeilly will be focused on earning a place in the Wycombe lineup and could make his Football League debut in their next fixture. Wycombe head to promotion-chasing Derby County, who are currently third in the standings.

Forest have been preparing for an away PL match against Arsenal who are 3rd in the standings. Forest are 10th with 4 points in three matches and looking at least at performing as well as last season. This aligns with Nottingham Forest’s current goal to improve their performance after finishing seventh last season and qualifying for the Conference League, which underscores their aim to ensure a safer finish this season.