Premier League champions Manchester City are eyeing Ola Aina, the Nottingham Forest standout defender, as they gear up for potential squad changes to bolster their ranks. With the club's hierarchy eyeing both the January and summer transfer windows of 2025, interest is peaking around the 28-year-old Nigerian international, who recently emerged as one of Forest’s best-performing players.
Reports suggest City’s management, led by Pep Guardiola, are contemplating significant alterations to the first-team roster. Following disappointing performances attributed to the current squad's aging players, the club acknowledges the need for refreshing their lineup. Indeed, the decline of club captain Kyle Walker, now 34, has triggered discussions about bringing Aina onboard as his long-term successor.
According to The Sun, Aina is on City’s transfer wishlist, especially since his contract at the City Ground expires at the end of the 2024/25 season. Forest's management is reportedly eager to secure Aina’s services on a longer-term deal, knowing he remains immensely popular with supporters and has made significant contributions on the pitch this season.
The January transfer window presents City with the first opportunity to solidify their interest. Guardiola is said to be aware of Aina’s abilities, considering him for the right-back position, where competition is fiercest. The player’s versatility is undoubtedly appealing, as he can also operate at center-back and defensive midfield, broadening tactical options for the manager.
Despite the speculation surrounding Aina’s potential move, Nottingham Forest, right now sitting third in the Premier League, has expressed concerns about the timing of these transfer reports. OwnGoalNigeria.com highlights Forest's unease as they work to negotiate Aina's contract extension. They believe Manchester City's public interest could unsettle the player and potentially stall discussions about his future at the club. Aina has already registered two goals during his 19 appearances this season, which undoubtedly contribute to his increasing value.
Coaching staff at Nottingham Forest, led by Nuno Espirito Santo, view securing Aina's contract as imperative and hope to finalize negotiations before the month ends. Time is of the essence as the January window opens, and the club seeks to maintain their defensive integrity and overall momentum within the league.
Meanwhile, experts are weighing in on the feasibility of the proposed switch. Sports commentator Steven McInerney expressed confidence about the move, labeling it as feasible for City. “Feels like a no-brainer for me,” McInerney stated via Sportsmole. “With his contract expiring and his versatility, Aina emerges as significant talent at this stage of his career.” He highlighted the possibility of City focusing recruitment efforts not just on high-profile talent but also on players like Aina, who could fill specific roles economically.
Should Aina make the move to the Etihad Stadium, he would join the upwardly mobile squad aiming to reclaim their dominance following this season's troubles. City supporters are enthusiastic about the pursuit, acknowledging Aina's solid defensive skills and capability to seamlessly integrate within Guardiola's playing style.
One of the additional names being floated as an alternative is Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich, another versatile player who could significantly influence City’s defensive and midfield play. Guardiola’s previous relationship with Kimmich adds another layer of intrigue to future dealings, yet the cost and competition for his services might steer City back toward Aina.
Right now, Aina’s stats are impressive, more so than another potential target, Antonee Robinson of Fulham, even as the latter garners interest due to his own performances. With his market value estimated at €14 million, Aina potentially presents substantial value for City compared to Robinson’s €28 million asking price, according to Transfermarkt data.
Aina’s achievements this season haven't gone unnoticed, as he was featured in Jamie Carragher’s Team of the Season so far. This accolade showcases Aina's impressive contributions, elevates his profile, and firmly plants him on the radar of elite clubs seeking reinforcements.
Forest continues to display confidence around reaching mutual agreements with Aina as they aim to establish stability amid the swirling transfer rumors. Time will reveal the extent of City’s pursuit of Aina, with fans and analysts alike glued to the potential shift during this transfer period.