The name of Super Eagles' full-back Ola Aina has surfaced in the gossip columns, with Liverpool and Manchester City both reportedly circling. On current form, the interest is understandable.
The Super Eagles full-back has been in imperious form or Nottingham Forest this season, offering energy, discipline and versatility in a team fighting to make the UCL.
But as often happens in football, the headline links tell only half the story.
Aina’s contract at Forest is believed to be up at the end of the season, sparking speculation that the 28-year-old could be prised away for nothing.
However, buried within the agreement is a clause that complicates matters. An automatic one-year extension should Forest avoid relegation. With survival more than guaranteed, the clause is almost certain to be triggered.
Ola Aina’s automatic extension complicates summer exit
Liverpool, staring down the possibility of losing Trent Alexander-Arnold on a free transfer, are believed to view Aina as a ready-made replacement. A short-term fix with Premier League experience. Manchester City, too, are reportedly monitoring him as a potential successor to Kyle Walker.
Yet Forest are under no pressure. The Nigeria international, who arrived on a free transfer from Torino in 2023, has become integral under Nuno Espírito Santo.
Talks are already underway for a longer-term deal, and the player himself has not hidden his admiration for the club and his rapport with teammates.
Still, the Tricky Trees are wary. If Aina refuses to extend beyond next season, the club may be forced to cash in while his value is high. For now, though, the talk of Anfield and the Etihad must wait.
Until there’s a breakthrough in talks or a firm bid arrives, his Premier League future looks to be in red, just not the one Liverpool fans were hoping for.
