'I'd expect' - Former Man United chief scout weighs in on Ola Aina's future at Forest amid Man City links

Nottingham Forest are making progress in their efforts to secure a contract extension for versatile right back Ola Aina, according to former Manchester United and Blackburn Rovers chief scout Mick Brown. 

Aina's current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and Forest are keen to tie him down to a new deal.

The 28-year-old has been a crucial part of Forest's success this season, starting all 20 of their league games and helping the team rise to third place in the Premier League. 

His impressive performances have attracted interest from top clubs, including Manchester City, who are reportedly considering him as a potential replacement for Kyle Walker.

Aina's contract situation has sparked concerns among Forest fans, but Brown's comments suggest that the club is making progress in their efforts to retain the wing-back. 

Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo has pledged to keep the squad intact in the January transfer window, despite the uncertainty surrounding Aina's future.

Brown, who has a wealth of experience working with top players, including over a decade with Manchester United during their most successful period, praised Aina's performances this season. 

He also went on highlight Aina's strengths, including his defensive prowess and ability to play going forward.

"They're desperate to get him tied down," Brown told Football Insider. "I'd expect those talks to progress quickly, and I think they'll be edging closer to that agreement. From what I know, he's very happy there and they want him to stay, so it's a no-brainer."

"I remember watching Aina as a youth player at Chelsea, then he went to Hull City and somewhere else, then he went to Italy and kept improving his game," he said. "When he came back and went to Forest, I was interested to see how he did because he's always been a good player, but now he's really stepped up a gear."

"He's strong defensively, gets his foot in to win the ball, and he can play going forward, he's a good technician, and he's done brilliantly," he said. "They're definitely looking to keep him at the club because he has been so impressive, and they are putting together something that's really worked for them this season."

Nottingham Forest signed the Chelsea academy alum on a free transfer in the summer of 2023 following the expiration of his contract at Torino. 

Ejim Kaycee

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