Okello Bartley Signs First Professional Nottingham Forest Contract

Nottingham Forest have confirmed that talented academy star Okello Bartley has penned his first professional contract with the club.

The defender recently turned 17, making him eligible to sign a professional contract, and has agreed terms on a deal which commits him to Trentside until at least June 2029.

Bartley has been with Forest since the age of seven, in the Reds' pre-academy programme, and has risen through the ranks ever since.

Most recently, he has been in the under-18s squad, where he has started all seven games so far this season, showing his importance to the side.

Bartley has also had his talents rewarded by being called up to represent England at youth level, another sign of his talent.

Forest's Head of Academy, Chris McGuane, was full of praise for the youngster, for not only his ability, but his character too.

“We are delighted that Okello has signed his first professional contract. It is a reward for his hard work and consistency throughout his development at the club.

“Okello is a fantastic individual who has represented England at youth level and has an incredible desire to develop as both a player and a person. He embodies the values of the club and has a strong family support network around him.

“He is a composed defender with an excellent ability to sense danger and the defensive attributes to excel within our programme.

“He understands the hard work and commitment required as he progresses, and everyone at the Academy looks forward to supporting him through the next chapter of his career at Nottingham Forest."