- Manchester City are eyeing Super Eagles star Ola Aina as a replacement for Kyle Walker, who has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia
- Notably, Ola Aina’s standout performances for Nottingham Forest have earned him a spot in Jamie Carragher’s Team of the Season so far
- Nottingham Forest are also keen to retain Aina, given his pivotal role in their European qualification ambitions
Manchester City, the reigning Premier League champions, have expressed strong confidence in securing Nigerian international Ola Aina from Nottingham Forest during the January transfer window. The versatile full-back has emerged as one of the league's standout performers, drawing interest from top clubs across Europe.
Aina, who has been instrumental in Nottingham Forest’s remarkable rise to third place in the Premier League table, has consistently delivered standout performances this season.
The 28-year-old’s contract runs until the summer of 2025, but his current form and expiring deal have made him a prime target for suitors like Manchester City and Turkish champions Galatasaray.
Man City, currently facing an uphill battle in their title defence, are eager to bolster their squad before the February 3 deadline. The Sky Blues had a relatively quiet summer transfer window, bringing in only Ilkay Gundogan and Savinho.
However, with the departure of long-serving director of football Txiki Begiristain looming, City are ramping up their recruitment efforts under his guidance before Hugo Viana takes over. Aina’s ability to operate across multiple defensive positions makes him an attractive option for Pep Guardiola, particularly as veteran Kyle Walker has been linked with a lucrative move to Saudi Arabia.
Reports suggest that Aina’s value has skyrocketed following his impressive displays this season, including five goals in 75 Premier League appearances and a crucial goal-line clearance during Forest’s stunning 1-0 victory at Anfield.
The former Chelsea academy graduate has also been a creative force, contributing key assists and helping Nottingham Forest reach 40 points by mid-season. His performances earned him a spot in Jamie Carragher’s Team of the Season so far, outperforming other top defenders statistically.
Nottingham Forest, however, are keen to retain their star player. Aina’s contributions have been pivotal to their European qualification ambitions, and losing him mid-season could derail their progress. Despite this, City remain optimistic, believing that his contract situation and weekly wage of £40,000 could give them leverage in negotiations.
The Saudi Pro League has also entered the race, reportedly preparing lucrative offers to lure the Nigerian star. This foreign competition complicates the transfer situation for City, who are looking to move swiftly to secure Aina’s services.
“I’m just happy I got one today,” Nigeria’s Aina elated after helping Forest beat Brentford
Previously, TheRadar reported that Nigerian full-back Ola Aina was elated as he shone once again after his early strike set Nottingham Forest on course for a stunning 2-0 victory over Brentford at the Brentford Community Stadium on Saturday, December 21.
The win marked Forest’s third consecutive victory, pushing them momentarily to fourth place in the Premier League table, just two points below Arsenal.
