Super Eagles star signs pre-contract to replace Ola Aina at Nottingham Forest – Report

English Premier League title contenders, Nottingham Forest, have reportedly secured a pre-contract agreement with Fenerbahce full-back Bright Osayi-Samuel, Soccernet.ng reports.

This move has raised fresh questions on the future of Super Eagles defender, Ola Aina, at the City Ground.

According to Turkish outlet Takvim, Forest have struck a deal to sign Osayi-Samuel ahead of the summer transfer window.

The 27-year-old Nigerian international is nearing the end of his contract with Fenerbahce, and with no renewal on the table under Jose Mourinho, he appears set for a return to England.

Bright Osayi-Samuel during the Men’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations AFCON qualifier match between Nigeria and Rwanda [Photo credit/Imago]
Osayi-Samuel, who previously donned the colours of Queens Park Rangers has been a key figure for Fenerbahce with 168 appearances, scoring seven goals, and providing 14 assists.

What Does This Mean for Ola Aina?

While Osayi-Samuel’s arrival suggests he could be Aina’s replacement, the situation might not be that straightforward.

Aina has been one of Forest’s standout signings since arriving on a free transfer from FC Torino, and letting him leave for nothing would be a questionable decision.

Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina 34 after the final whistle as Nottingham Forest lose 3-4 during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest [Photo credit/Imago]
The Super Eagles defender 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.

While Osayi-Samuel could be on his way to England, and with Aina’s situation still unresolved, Forest’s summer transfer plans could be an interesting one to keep an eye on.

This post was last modified on March 6, 2025 1:53 am

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories. Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

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