Laing, a 21-year-old centre back that can also play at full back and in holding midfield, will link up with Stuart Pearce's men ahead of their 2014/2015 Championship campaign.
Laing was released by Sunderland at the end of last season having come through the academy at the club, starting at under 9's level before rising through the ranks whilst representing England at various youth levels.
He made his senior debut under Steve Bruce in 2011 in a game against Wolverhampton Wanderers as a late substitute for John Mensah, but unfortunately suffered some massive setbacks due to injury that slowed down his progress. Laing never made another first team appearance for the club but did spend some time out on loan at Wycombe Wanderers in 2012.
Laing had a trial at Manchester United in April and had also attracted interest from Blackburn Rovers but it was Forest he chose to join, signing a on year deal that includes an option of a further year at the end of the season.
On leaving the club, Laing told NottinghamForest.co.uk:
"I haven’t got a bad word to say about Sunderland, but for me changes of manager here and there maybe didn’t work in my favour and to come to a club like this, with its stature and aspirations, I couldn’t think of anything better for my career."
Good luck to Louis in the future - I saw him on many occasions for our reserve and U21s sides and he has unquestionable ability. Whether or not he makes it at a high level is up to him - he's got a huge opportunity being at a Championship club and his new manager, Stuart Pearce, will likely give any young English talent their opportunity if he feels they're good enough.