Ola Aina’s impressive performances for Nottingham Forest and the Nigerian national team have caught the attention of notable clubs, particularly AS Roma, as reported by Nottingham Forest News. The Premier League side is reportedly seeking a fee of at least £8 million for Aina, who is currently in advanced negotiations for a new contract at the City Ground. This development underscores Aina’s pivotal contributions to the team since joining Forest last summer on a free transfer. His rapid ascent as a key player reflects both his growth and the crucial role he plays within the squad.
Prior to his arrival at Nottingham Forest, Aina had a successful stint in Italy’s Serie A, where he represented Torino from 2018 to 2023. Initially joining on loan from Chelsea, he secured a permanent transfer after catching the eye of the Torino management with his performances, particularly during the 2018-19 season. Over his five years in Italy, Aina made 102 appearances and scored twice, showcasing his abilities as a reliable and skilled wingback. This experience has undoubtedly contributed to his growth as a player and has shaped his current capabilities at Forest.
In the ongoing Premier League season, Aina has been a standout performer, consistently delivering solid displays on the pitch. His exploits with the Nigerian national team further emphasize his current form and value. During a recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match against Libya, he played a crucial role in securing a defensive structure for the Super Eagles. His 90-minute performance demonstrated his ability to influence the game positively, garnering praise for both his contributions and defensive acumen from commentators and analysts alike.
Versatility has become one of Aina’s defining traits under manager Nuno Espirito Santo, who has utilized him in various defensive roles, including left-back and right-back. This adaptability on the field enhances Aina’s value to the squad, providing the team with crucial flexibility depending on the tactical requirements of each match. Football pundit Ian Wright highlighted Aina’s exemplary defensive display in a challenging match against Liverpool, where his contributions were key to Forest’s narrow victory at Anfield, further cementing his reputation as a dependable player.
Statistically, Aina’s numbers from the match against Libya underscore a solid performance. With 74 touches, a 95% passing accuracy, and successful long balls and crosses, he showcased his ability to contribute effectively in both defensive and offensive phases of play. Despite committing a couple of fouls and losing possession occasionally, his overall influence in winning duels, making tackles, and intercepting passes proved invaluable to the team’s defensive efforts. This type of performance reinforces the necessity for Nottingham Forest to secure his services with a new contract ahead of the January transfer window.
As January approaches, securing Aina’s signature on a new deal is crucial for Nottingham Forest to fend off emerging interest, particularly from AS Roma. His importance to Nuno Espirito Santo’s plans cannot be overstated, and his versatility in defense makes him a highly sought-after asset. Retaining Aina will not only stabilize the squad but also send a message about the club’s ambition to keep hold of their key players as they aim for success in the Premier League and beyond. With his consistent improvements and contributions, Aina appears set to remain an integral part of Nottingham Forest’s plans in both domestic and international competitions.
