Ola Aina contract update at Nottingham Forest as clause officially triggered

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Ola Aina’s impressive performances have attracted several suitors, luckily for Nottingham Forest, though it seems like they might be able to keep hold of their man.

The Nigerian has been a key part of Nuno Espirito Santo’s side this season, with Aina receiving widespread praise for his displays at full-back.

But with only months left to run on his Forest deal, it was feared that the 28-year-old could actually leave the City Ground this summer.

Potentially available on a free, Liverpool have been linked with Aina as a possible Trent Alexander-Arnold replacement. That move, however, now seems unlikely following Forest’s latest decision.

• READ MORE: Nuno Espirito Santo shares whether or not Ola Aina will be fit for Nottingham Forest vs Brentford

Nottingham Forest activate Ola Aina contract clause

Forest were preparing themselves for Aina bids ahead of the summer, but it now seems like the City Ground outfit have found a resolution to the problem.

That is according to Paul Taylor from The Athletic, who claims that Forest have activated a one-year extension in Aina’s contract thanks to a clause inserted in the deal, which could be activated if Forest avoided relegation.

But despite tying the full-back down to another year, Forest are reportedly keen on going one step further and securing Aina to a longer-term deal, in an attempt to fend off any potential suitors.

Forest still need full-back reinforcements

Forest will no doubt be over the moon that they have been able to extend the Nigerian’s stay at the club; they do, however, still need further reinforcements in the full-back area.

Aina’s recent injury has exposed some glaring holes in Esprito Santo’s squad, with youngster Zac Abbott featuring against Man City due to a lack of options.

With only four senior full-backs currently signed to the club, Alex Moreno’s likely return to Aston Villa means that Forest will be down to only three heading into next season.

Forest’s links with Daniel Svensson would suggest the club recognise the potential issue, whether they can fix it, is another question entirely.