Nottingham Forest is set to offer defender Ola Aina a new contract following his impressive performances this season, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Nigeria international, whose current deal expires next summer, has been a key figure in Forest’s backline, earning plaudits for his versatility and consistent displays.
Aina’s stellar performance in Forest’s shock 1-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield last weekend has further underlined his importance to Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
The 27-year-old’s disciplined display caught the eye of Premier League legend Alan Shearer, who included him in his Team of the Week.
“Part of a fine defensive display from Forest, Aina kept the in-form Luis Diaz quiet, which is no mean feat,” Shearer said.
Forest’s chief football officer Ross Wilson previously praised Aina’s impact since joining the club last summer, highlighting his positive personality and on-pitch contributions.
“Since Ola joined the club last summer, he has impressed all of us with his performances both on the pitch and also with the positive personality that he brings to the group every day,” Wilson said when activating a one-year extension clause in Aina’s contract at the end of last season.
The former Chelsea youth product has been instrumental in Forest’s defensive solidity, featuring prominently in their unbeaten start to the season. His ability to play on both flanks aligns perfectly with Nuno’s preference for versatile players in a compact squad.
Aina’s importance to the team was further emphasised in the Anfield victory, where he cleared a goal-bound effort off the line, denying Liverpool’s Luis Diaz in the first half.
As Forest look to push up the Premier League table, securing Aina’s long-term future appears to be a priority.The club are expected to open talks with the defender in the coming weeks, aiming to tie down a player who has become integral to their Premier League ambitions.
With other key players like Morgan Gibbs-White also in line for new deals, Forest are demonstrating their commitment to building a strong, stable squad capable of competing at the highest level.