- Nottingham Forest has secured the signature of defender Ola Aina.
- The Nigerian international has officially signed a one-year contract, making him Nottingham Forest's first acquisition during the summer transfer window.
- The deal also includes future options, providing the club with flexibility beyond the initial term.
Aina arrives at the City Ground after his time with Torino, where he enjoyed nearly five years and participated in 102 Serie A matches.
The 26-year-old began his football journey at Chelsea's academy and boasts an impressive track record, having won two FA Youth Cups, two UEFA Youth League titles, and a U21 Premier League title during his stint at Stamford Bridge.
After representing England in various age groups, Aina decided to play for Nigeria in 2017 and has since earned 30 international caps for the Super Eagles.
While on a season-long low deal at Fulham from Torino, Aina made 33 appearances and caught attention with a remarkable strike that earned him a nomination for the Premier League Goal of the Season Award.
Following a fruitful five-year spell in Turin, the former Fulham defender is now back in England and eager to join Nottingham Forest.
In his own words, Ola Aina expressed his excitement, saying: "I'm very excited to be here, and I can't wait to get started. I wanted to be back on English soil again, and Forest is a club which has an exciting project and team."
He further praised the manager's vision and team atmosphere, stating: "The manager as well, what he wants from the team is something which I want to buy into. He's told me it's a family club; he's told me we have a great bunch of players, and he's told me I'll enjoy it here."
Aina also shared his enthusiasm about returning to the Premier League, stating: "It's exciting to be back playing in the Premier League. It's the best league in the world, and I always want to challenge myself."
The Nigerian defender expressed eagerness to bond with his new teammates and get to know everyone at the club, adding: "I know some of the boys well already, which is good for me, but I'm excited to meet the rest of my teammates and get to know everyone."
He also acknowledged the passion of Forest's fans, saying: "I saw Forest in action last season, and the fans are as loud as can be throughout the whole game, which is something I'm relishing and can't wait to experience. I can't wait for it."
Aina is set to join fellow Super Eagles stars Taiwo Awoniyi and Emmanuel Dennis at Nottingham Forest.
