Chelsea are said to have designs on bringing Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina back to Stamford Bridge.
The full-back has been in fantastic form for the Reds this season. Operating on the right, he has been a mainstay of the defence and has played a huge role amid a Champions League charge for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side.
A 12-month extension is set to be triggered on his Forest contract, which is due to expire in the summer. However, talks have taken place regarding a further extension.
But with Aina yet to put pen to paper, other clubs are said to be monitoring his situation. The 28-year-old’s former side, Chelsea, are the latest to be linked with him.
According to TBR Football, the Blues are “interested in signing” their former academy player. It is claimed they are “doing work on a deal to lure” him back to the capital and have been scouting him closely in recent weeks.
Liverpool, Manchester City, Roma, AC Milan and Galatasaray have already been credited with an interest in the Reds ace. Clubs in Saudi Arabia are also said to have him on their radar.
Aina started out with the Blues before leaving for Torino in 2019 after a loan spell with the Italian side turned into a permanent move. He then signed for Forest as a free agent four years later.
The Nigeria international has previously indicated he is keen to stay put on the banks of the Trent. Asked if he would like to be at the City Ground for a long time, he recently said: “I hope so, I really enjoy it here. I enjoy the staff, the players, the club, the community. Everything about it is a good place, so, yeah, hopefully.”
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Head coach Nuno has said he doesn’t generally get involved in discussions around such matters as new contracts. However, he has maintained his confidence that a positive conclusion will soon be reached regarding Aina.
Asked recently if good news is expected soon, the Portuguese said: “I think so. Things are going well. I am positive and confident everything is going to be solved.”
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