Nottingham Forest set to sign former Chelsea defender Ola Aina for free | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest are close to signing former Chelsea and Torino defender Ola Aina on a free transfer, (via The Telegraph).

The 26-year-old, who honed his skills in Chelsea’s Cobham academy, is no stranger to the Premier League.

During the 2020/21 season, he played on loan at Fulham, making 31 appearances in the top flight.

Aina started his career at Stamford Bridge but moved to Torino permanently in 2019 following a successful loan spell.

Throughout his time in Italy, he demonstrated versatility as a full-back, contributing from either flank.

However, Aina had a few injury setbacks last season that restricted his playing time. He will hope to bounce back in England.

Forest have also agreed a £15 million deal with Manchester United to sign winger Anthony Elanga.

The 21-year-old Swede wants regular playing time, making him a perfect fit for Steve Cooper’s squad.

With only five Premier League starts last season, Elanga is hungry for more opportunities on the pitch.

Forest will not stop at signing Elanga. There is growing optimism they can secure the permanent signing of goalkeeper Dean Henderson from Man United.

Henderson, who spent a loan spell at the City Ground last season, is eager to secure regular playing time following the arrival of Andre Onana at Old Trafford this summer.

Forest are assembling a formidable squad under Steve Cooper’s leadership. They have some stability after the chaotic nature of the last two transfer windows.

They can take their time to make some crucial additions, and there is every reason for them to be optimistic about the 2023/24 season.