Chelsea are plotting a sensational return for their former academy graduate Ola Aina, but they’ll have to fend off interest from Manchester City and Liverpool to get their man.
According to reports from TBR, Enzo Maresca is keen to bring the Nottingham Forest star back to Stamford Bridge after his impressive performances in the Premier League this season. While Chelsea’s past relationship with Aina could give them an edge, they face stiff competition from two of their biggest rivals.
From Cobham to Europe and Back?
Aina’s journey started at Chelsea’s youth academy in 2007, where he quickly rose through the ranks, making his first-team debut in 2015. However, with limited opportunities in the senior squad, he moved on after multiple loan spells, securing a permanent transfer to Torino in 2019 for just £8.7 million.
After four years in Italy, the Nigerian international returned to England last summer, joining Nottingham Forest on a free transfer—a move that has since proven to be a masterstroke. Aina has been a standout performer for Forest this season, playing a crucial role in their push for a top-four finish.
Chelsea’s Plan & Fierce Competition
With Reece James’ persistent injury struggles, Chelsea are actively looking to bolster their right flank, and Aina has emerged as a prime target. Scouts have been closely monitoring his progress, and the club is now working behind the scenes to lure him back to west London.
However, sealing the deal won’t be easy. Despite his contract expiring at the end of the season, Nottingham Forest have a 12-month extension clause, which they are set to trigger while also pushing for a new long-term deal.
Meanwhile, Manchester City and Liverpool have also entered the race. City, following Kyle Walker’s mid-season departure, are desperate to strengthen their right-back position, while Liverpool are preparing for the possibility of Trent Alexander-Arnold leaving as a free agent.
With three Premier League giants circling, Aina faces a career-defining decision this summer. Will he make an emotional return to Chelsea, take on a new challenge at City or Liverpool, or commit his future to Nottingham Forest?
