Italian Serie A side AS Roma have entered the race to sign Super Eagles and Nottingham Forest full-back Ola Aina, joining Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in targeting the 28-year-old.
Aina has been a standout performer for Forest this season, widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s top right-backs.
With his current contract at the City Ground set to expire in six months, the Nigerian defender is free to begin pre-contract negotiations with any club ahead of a potential summer move.
Roma’s sporting director, Florent Ghisolfi, has made inquiries about Ola Aina following the Italian side’s interest in the LB, who is currently among the best in his position in the world. The 28-year-old contract with Nottingham Forrest will end in the summer of 2025. pic.twitter.com/yeyPyV2Ex1
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Roma Press reports that the three-time Serie A champions are keen on bringing Aina to the Italian capital.
The club has encountered difficulties in securing a deal with Ajax for right-back Devyne Rensch and has now shifted focus to the Nigerian international.
Roma’s sporting director, Florent Ghisolfi, has reportedly made initial inquiries with Aina’s representatives and is closely monitoring his situation at Nottingham Forest.
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In addition to Roma, Manchester City remains a key contender for Aina’s signature following his impressive start to the season.
However, both clubs may face an uphill battle in convincing Aina to leave Forest, with manager Nuno Espirito Santo expressing confidence that the defender will sign a new deal and remain at the club beyond the summer.
“On Ola’s contract, I don’t think there’s an issue. He and the others are working well, and everything is going smoothly. The club is handling the situation, and we’re focused on creating the right atmosphere for our players,” said Espirito Santo.
Should Aina decide to make the move to Roma, it would mark a return to Italy, where he spent five years at Torino following his departure from Chelsea in 2018.