Why Ola Aina must leave Nottingham Forest before the transfer market closes

Super Eagles defender Ola Aina has been a vital figure for Nottingham Forest over the past three seasons, but his days as the undisputed first-choice right-back may be numbered, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Aina joined the Tricky Trees from Torino on a free transfer in 2023, kicking off arguably the finest spell of his career with 87 appearances across all competitions.

His brilliant form even prompted strong links to Manchester City last year, though he ultimately opted to sign a contract extension at the City Ground.

​Having worked under six different managers during his stint in Nottingham, Aina’s status as the undisputed starter on the right flank was rarely questioned.

However, that now looks set to shift following the summer arrival of manager Oliver Glasner.

​Why Ola Aina Could Lose His Starting Role

​Glasner has already begun putting his tactical stamp on the squad, deploying his signature 3-4-2-1 formation. This setup places immense physical and tactical demands on wing-backs.

​Tasked with playing right wing-back, Aina has struggled to look entirely convincing, and has appeared out of his element despite his usual work ethic and commitment.

Although he remains a capable defender, his profile does not cleanly match the demands of a high-flying wing-back in Glasner’s blueprint.

​Forest have now reportedly lodged a bid for Crystal Palace standout Daniel Muñoz. Under Glasner at Selhurst Park, Muñoz proved to be one of the Austrian’s most reliable assets — a tireless runner and the quintessential modern wing-back.

BREAKING: Nottingham Forest are close to reaching an agreement with Crystal Palace for Daniel Munoz 🚨

Forest made a £22m bid earlier this week and negotiations are now at the final stages✍️ pic.twitter.com/BrHNqdZfLm

— Sky Sports News (@SkySportsNews) August 29, 2026

With Nottingham Forest stumbling to two consecutive defeats to open the campaign and Aina appearing vulnerable in the new role, the push to sign Muñoz has gained urgent traction.

🚨🌳 Nottingham Forest are in direct contact with Crystal Palace today to try close the agreement for Daniel Munoz.

Deal on with player keen on joining #NFFC. pic.twitter.com/gLLPeQ9N2i

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 29, 2026

​What a Muñoz Deal Would Mean for Aina

​Few players currently operate on Muñoz’s level in that role. His relentless stamina, positional discipline, and prior success under Glasner make him the overwhelming favorite to claim the starting wing-back spot should a deal materialize.

​For Aina, this would mean a serious reduction in minutes. But relegation to a bench role is far from ideal for a player of his caliber.

As he is approaching the latter stages of his career, the Nigerian international still has plenty of quality football left in him and would likely feel frustrated with limited opportunities.

​If Muñoz arrives at the City Ground, Aina would be wise to explore options elsewhere.

With his proven Premier League experience, versatility, and realistic valuation, he would be an attractive target for several top-flight clubs—and a departure may offer his best route to regular first-team football.