Nottingham Forest sign pre-contract deal with Osayi-Samuel as they look to replace Aina

SUPER Eagles fullback Bright Osayi-Samuel has signed a pre-contract with English Premier League side Nottingham Forest to replace compatriot Ola Aina during the forthcoming summer transfer window at the end of the current season.

Aina, 28, is out on contract at the City Ground at the end of the season but negotiations on a new deal have not been concluded. With several big clubs, led by Manchester City, looking to sign Aina, his agents appear reluctant to enter into a new deal with Forest, paving the way for their man to leave on a free contract at the end of the season.

In the summer of 2023, Aina joined Forest on a free transfer from Italian side Torino and went on to make 22 appearances for Nuno Espirito Santo’s side that season. As a result, Forest activated a one-year extension clause in his contact at the end of the season but it is now looking unlikely that they will be able to do that again.

According to Turkish outlet Takvim, keen to have a replacement lined up, Forest have struck a deal with Fenerbahce full back Osayi-Samuel ahead of the summer transfer window. Osayi-Samuel, 27, is nearing the end of his contract with Fenerbahce and with no new deal on the table under Jose Mourinho, he appears set for a return to England.

Osayi-Samuel, who previously played for Queens Park Rangers has been a key figure for Fenerbahce with 168 appearances, scoring seven goals and providing 14 assists. While Osayi-Samuel’s arrival suggests he could be Aina’s replacement, the situation might not be that straightforward..

Aina has openly stated his desire to stay at Forest, which should prompt the club to offer him a new contract rather than lose a key player. However, with Manchester City reportedly showing interest, Forest must act fast to secure his future.