1 month ago
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AS Roma are reportedly considering a January bid for Nottingham Forest’s Nigerian international defender Ola Aina as they seek to bolster their right flank options, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
According to Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport, the Giallorossi have set their sights on the former Torino full-back, whose current contract with Forest runs until June 2025.
Roma’s interest in Aina comes as they look to strengthen their defensive options, with current right-back Saud Abdulhamid still adapting to Italian football and struggling to challenge Zeki Celik for a starting spot.
The 28-year-old Aina’s versatility, being capable of playing on both the right and left flanks, is said to be a key factor in Roma’s interest. The Italian Serie A outfit is reportedly prepared to offer between €12m and €15m for the defender’s signature, though they may attempt to negotiate a lower fee.
Interestingly, Roma are also considering including Polish winger Nicola Zalewski in a potential player-plus-cash swap deal to sweeten the offer for Forest.
However, Forest may be reluctant to part with Aina, given his impressive performances this season and being a key figure in their backline, earning plaudits for his consistent displays and versatility.
Aina’s standout performance in Forest’s shock 1-0 win over Liverpool at Anfield recently caught the eye of Premier League legend Alan Shearer, who included him in his Team of the Week after matchday four.
“Part of a fine defensive display from Forest, Aina kept the in-form Luis Diaz quiet, which is no mean feat,” Shearer stated.
Forest’s chief football officer, Ross Wilson, has previously praised Aina’s impact since joining the club last summer, highlighting both his on-pitch contributions and positive personality.
The Premier League side is reportedly set to offer Aina a new contract, with talks expected to open in the coming weeks. This move by Forest could complicate Roma’s pursuit of the defender, potentially driving up his transfer value.
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