This is the summer Ramón Sosa has to secure his move to a European side. Concrete interest has largely come from the MLS, but as Sosa has continued to shine in Argentina, several Premier League clubs have been sniffing around trying to work out a deal with Talleres.
Both Chelsea and Wolves enquired, with the latter appearing to be the closest earlier in the window, yet his destination may well be the City Ground - joining a host of South American talents already at the club.
A move has perhaps been delayed slightly due to representing his country at Copa America in the US, but from the players' side, he has always looked likely to take that next step - and one that he deserves.
Ramón Sosa: Player Profile
Talleres’ 24-year-old winger has consistently been one of, if not, the club’s best players since joining from Gimnasia back in 2023.
His debut season exceeded expectations. With eight goals and six assists across 32 appearances, Sosa helped the club secure a Copa Libertadores place after a year’s absence.
Of course, his goals and assists were vital in helping lift Talleres into second place behind River Plate, but his overall contribution to the team is why many in Europe were keeping close tabs on him.
The Paraguayan thrives when on the ball. Whether carrying his team up the pitch or driving into attacking areas in the opponent's half, Sosa has proven to be the main attraction in Argentina.
Technically gifted, the 24-year-old is a smart operator in the final third. Constantly looking to create room, Sosa recognises pockets of space he can exploit, whether playing in other teammates or looking to shoot. More often than not, it’s the latter.
A shooting machine, Sosa’s goal reel is impressive, but sometimes doesn’t tell the whole story. Still, he’s brave and confident enough to back his ability in and around the 18-yard box.
Not only does Sosa possess the pace and dribbling ability that every team craves, but it’s his strength to shove off opponents that stands out when progressing up the pitch. Timely runs into the box and cutting inside to strike the ball became a trademark for Sosa - his recent goal at Copa America is proof of that.
Agile, skilful and with the confidence to burst into the box, his rise has been slightly later than most, but he arrives in Europe with a more rounded profile and international experience.
Out of possession, his desire to work hard for his team can’t be faulted, but his numbers in terms of winning the ball back in high areas can be improved. Still, this isn’t his main responsibility and it’s something that can be worked on in his new environment.
This summer transfer window is the correct time to move to Europe, and Sosa’s entourage have that call to make. Another season in Argentina may limit his future opportunities, with most Premier League clubs not looking at importing players 25 or older out of South America.
The Nottingham Forest fit
Once again, Nottingham Forest have located another astute player from the continent. Manager Nuno Santo expressed his desire to have at least another winger join his squad, and the club has identified one that can work within the Portuguese’s system.
Callum Hudson-Odoi had plenty of success operating on the left flank and cutting inside last season, while Anthony Elanga not only chipped in with five goals, but also nine assists. But they need support and rotation if they are to produce those kinds of numbers again.
And Sosa can bring exactly that. Forest require a winger capable of picking the ball up and driving the team up the pitch, especially when looking to alleviate pressure on the road - form that needs to be addressed.
Yet at the City Ground, Sosa would look to kickstart counter attacks and transition plays, as well as constantly looking to create room to shoot. There may be an adjustment period in order to perfect this, but the Paraguayan has earned his chance to test himself in Europe.
A sprinkle of Sosa may be the final ingredient required to take Forest to the next level.
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