Super Eagles defender Ola Aina is set to get a contract extension with English Premier League club Nottingham Forest following his stellar debut season at the City Ground.
Aina, the 27-year-old Nigeria international, has proven to be an invaluable asset for Forest since arriving from Serie A club Torino last year.
With his contract expiring, Forest have the option to activate a new one-year deal, which is expected to be a mere formality given Aina's impressive performances.
Having made 13 Premier League appearances for Forest this season, Aina showcased his versatility by seamlessly transitioning between defense and midfield roles during the course of the season.
His contributions were notably missed when he represented Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he featured in all of the Super Eagles' matches, culminating in a final appearance against Ivory Coast.
Recognizing his outstanding displays, Aina was deservedly named in the Team of the Tournament by CAF alongside his team-mates William Troost Ekong and Ademola Lookman.
Nuno locks down Super Eagles defender Aina
According to reports from the Daily Telegraph, Nottingham Forest have decided to activate the clause in Aina's contract to prolong his stay at the City Ground.
While Aina missed several games due to injury, he has recently returned to action as a substitute in Forest's last two matches.
Despite his impending contract expiration, Forest Manager Nuno Espirito Santo has opted to extend Aina's tenure at the club by triggering the clause for an additional year.
This strategic move not only ensures that Forest retains Aina's services but also prevents him from departing on a free transfer, especially crucial amid the looming threat of relegation.
Forest currently face the risk of relegation from the top flight following a four-point penalty for breaching sustainability rules by the EPL.
With the team hovering just above the drop zone, every point becomes crucial in their bid to secure survival as the Premier League gets into the last few weeks of the season.
Aina, who has featured for Fulham in the past, missed Nigeria’s recent friendlies against Ghana and Mali due to the injury he sustained at the Nations Cup which also kept him out at Forest until his recent return.
Last weekend, Forest defeated Fulham 3-1 with Aina coming in as a late substitute as the team continued their fight against relegation.
Forest, who also have Nigeria striker Taiwo Awoniyi in their fold are currently one spot above the relegation zone with a three-point gap between them and Luton Town who have played a game more.
With this development, Aina will be now focused and primed to lead Forest's charge at avoiding the drop.
