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Nottingham Forest have activated a one-year extension in Ola Aina’s contract, securing the Nigerian defender’s services until the end of the 2025/26 season, Footynaija.com reports.
The decision follows an impressive campaign for Aina, who has become a key figure in Nuno Espírito Santo’s side since arriving on a free transfer in July 2023.
The 28-year-old has made 31 Premier League appearances this season, scoring twice, including a thunderous goal in the 3-0 win over West Ham United at the City Ground last November.
: Nottingham Forest have activated a one-year extension clause in Ola Aina’s contract now Forest have avoided relegation. Despite that security, Forest remain keen to agree a longer-term deal with Aina. #NFFC
— Forest Transfer Hub (@Nffc_Hub) May 1, 2025
[@nottmtails via @TheAthleticFC] pic.twitter.com/oA9DejgoM1
Beyond his performances on the pitch, Aina has emerged as a central figure in the dressing room. Known for his energy and charisma, the Super Eagles international has built strong bonds with teammates such as Anthony Elanga and Callum Hudson-Odoi.
“He is exactly like that in real life… so bubbly, so friendly,” said teammate Neco Williams. “You need players like him in the dressing room. He’s the joker — always smiling.”
Manager Nuno admitted the team felt Aina’s absence during a recent spell out with a calf injury. “We’ve been missing Ola, especially because of the stability he brings to the back four,” he said. “He’s had some huge moments for us, with a strong work ethic and good discipline.”
Aina returned to action in Forest’s 2-0 defeat to Brentford on Thursday, after missing matches against Aston Villa, Everton, and Tottenham.
Forest’s decision to trigger the extension came after securing Premier League survival.
Ola Aina is the most ‘two-footed’ Nottingham Forest player in the Premier League this season
— PFF FC (@PFF_FC) April 9, 2025
73% of his passes, crosses, shots, and clearances are with his right foot, and 27% with his left foot
| #NFFC | pic.twitter.com/rxoTFV6sRd
However, the club remain eager to tie Aina down to a longer-term deal, as the Super Eagles star is on the radar of top Premier League clubs including Manchester City.
Former Forest captain Michael Dawson, who played alongside Aina at Hull City, praised the defender’s development: “He was brilliant at Hull, and he’s shown he can do it at the highest level. His reading of the game is excellent.”
