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Tag: Ola Aina

  • Forest eye Osayi-Samuel as potential Aina replacement

    Forest eye Osayi-Samuel as potential Aina replacement

    English Premier League side Nottingham Forest have reportedly secured a pre-contract agreement with Fenerbahçe full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel as they prepare for the potential departure of compatriot Ola Aina.

    According to Turkish outlet Takvim, Osayi-Samuel has rejected multiple contract extension offers from Fenerbahçe, opting instead to pursue a move back to England. The Nigerian defender’s current deal with the Turkish giants expires at the end of the season, making him a free agent in the summer.

    “Fenerbahçe has found a way for Osayi-Samuel. The Nigerian star, whose contract will expire at the end of the season, has rejected the management’s latest contract offer,” Takvim reported.

    The outlet further revealed that Nottingham Forest have made the most serious approach for the versatile full-back, seeing him as a direct replacement for Aina, whose contract also expires this summer.

    Aina, who joined Forest on a free transfer from Torino, has been one of the club’s standout performers this season. However, uncertainty looms over his future, with reports linking him to Manchester City as a potential successor to Kyle Walker, who left for AC Milan in January.

    The Super Eagles defender has expressed his willingness to stay at the City Ground, but Forest risk losing him for free unless they move quickly to secure his services with a new deal.

    With Osayi-Samuel edging closer to a return to England and Aina’s future still up in the air, Nottingham Forest’s summer transfer business promises to be one to watch.

  • Forest confident of Aina stay

    Forest confident of Aina stay

    Nottingham Forest is expressing growing confidence about retaining Nigerian defender Ola Aina, with the club actively working to secure the player’s long-term future amid their impressive Premier League campaign.

    According to reports from The Athletic, Forest is in advanced discussions to extend Aina’s contract, reflecting the player’s crucial role in the team’s remarkable season.

    Currently occupying third place in the Premier League, Forest have transformed their fortunes under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, with Aina emerging as a key figure in their successful campaign. The defender has been instrumental in the team’s push for Champions League qualification, delivering consistently impressive performances that have caught the attention of both fans and management.

    Aina’s statistics for the 2024/25 season underscore his significance to the team. In 27 Premier League appearances, he has recorded 50 tackles, 29 interceptions, 75 clearances, and 28 successful dribbles – numbers that highlight his versatility and defensive prowess.

    The 28-year-old has particularly excelled after reverting to his right-back position, complementing Neco Williams’ performances on the left side of the back four. His contributions have been crucial in Forest’s remarkable run, which has seen them become genuine contenders for a top-four finish.

    Earlier this season, manager Nuno Espirito Santo praised Aina’s focus and commitment, particularly highlighting a crucial goal-line clearance in a dramatic 3-2 victory over Southampton.

    While Aina was only handed a one-year extension last summer, the club appears determined to secure his long-term future. The current contract situation suggests Forest can retain him until the summer of 2026, with ongoing discussions potentially extending this further.

    The potential contract extension comes at a critical moment for Forest. Following a challenging January transfer window where they were unable to secure a new striker, the club has maintained its competitive edge, with Aina playing a pivotal role in their continued success.

    Forest’s strategy appears focused on stability and continuity. The recent contract extensions of players like Chris Wood and Murillo have been well-received by fans, and Aina’s potential new deal would further reinforce this approach.

    With the team currently in a strong position to qualify for the Champions League, retaining key players like Aina becomes paramount. His defensive reliability, combined with his ability to contribute to attacking play, makes him an invaluable asset for Nuno’s ambitious Forest side.