Liverpool have entered the race alongside Manchester City to sign Super Eagles defender Ola Aina, with the Nottingham Forest full-back attracting interest as his contract nears expiration.
The 28-year-old has been one of Nottingham Forest’s standout players under Nuno Espírito Santo, playing a key role in their push for a UEFA Champions League spot.
His consistent performances and defensive versatility have put him on the radar of several top clubs, with Liverpool and City monitoring his situation closely.
Premier League Giants on High Alert
Aina’s contract at Forest expires at the end of the season, and with no extension agreed upon yet, interest in the Nigerian defender is growing. Since joining the club in 2023, he has made over 50 appearances, contributing three goals and two assists while proving his adaptability across multiple defensive positions.
According to TBR Football’s Graeme Bailey, Liverpool and Manchester City are keeping close tabs on Aina’s situation, seeing him as a valuable reinforcement for their squads.
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Pep Guardiola’s side have struggled with injuries in defense this season, and the decision to sell Kyle Walker to AC Milan without securing a direct replacement has left a gap at right-back.
Aina could be a replacement for Liverpool Trent Arnold. (Photo by Credit Imago)
Makeshift options like Matheus Nunes and Rico Lewis have yet to fully convince, making Aina a strong candidate to bolster City’s defensive ranks.
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Liverpool, on the other hand, are preparing for a potential defensive reshuffle. Trent Alexander-Arnold is in the final year of his contract and has been linked with a move to Real Madrid. With new manager Arne Slot evaluating his options, Aina is seen as a capable successor should Alexander-Arnold decide to leave for Spain.
Will Aina Stay at Nottingham Forest?
Despite the growing interest, Aina has expressed a desire to remain at Nottingham Forest.
“I hope so [to continue at Forest]. I really enjoy it here. I enjoy the staff, the players, the club, the community. Everything about it is a good place, so, yeah, hopefully,” Aina said in a previous interview.
However, Forest will have to act fast if they want to retain him. In addition to interest from Liverpool and Manchester City, clubs from the Saudi Pro League are reportedly eyeing a move for the Nigerian international, according to Nottingham Post.
