Manchester City are reportedly eyeing a move for Nigeria international Ola Aina during the January transfer window as Pep Guardiola seeks to refresh his squad.
Aina, who currently plays for Nottingham Forest, has emerged as a key target for the reigning Premier League champions. According to sources at GiveMeSport, Guardiola and senior officials at the Etihad Stadium have discussed bringing in the versatile defender to strengthen their backline.
City’s outgoing sporting director, Txiki Begiristain, is said to be leading the recruitment efforts before his departure at the end of the season. Aina is seen as a potential long-term successor to Kyle Walker. However, Nottingham Forest is working to extend the 28-year-old’s contract, with plans to activate a 12-month extension clause and offer him improved terms.
Despite Forest’s attempts to retain him, Manchester City remain optimistic about persuading Aina to move to the Etihad. The Nigerian international has impressed this season, playing a key role in keeping Forest within reach of the Premier League leaders.
Forest, however, are reluctant to lose Aina midway through the season as they push for European qualification. Manchester City could face competition from Saudi Pro League clubs, who are reportedly willing to offer Aina a more lucrative deal.
Aina, formerly with Chelsea and Torino, has been praised as a “fantastic” player by former Super Eagles captain John Mikel Obi. If Manchester City succeed in signing him, Aina would provide Guardiola with more options at right-back, complementing Walker and Rico Lewis.
