Nottingham Forest’s Summer Plans: Bright Osayi-Samuel Agrees Pre-Contract, Ola Aina Stays, and More Transfers Expected
Nottingham Forest are preparing for a busy summer transfer window, with owner Evangelos Marinakis keen to strengthen the squad, particularly in defence and attack. While the club aimed to sign a striker in January, financial restrictions and inflated market prices prevented any significant additions. However, with the possibility of securing European football next season, Forest are expected to have more financial flexibility in the summer and will likely be aggressive in the transfer market.
One of the first pieces of business appears to be the signing of Bright Osayi-Samuel, with reports from Turkish outlet Takvim suggesting that Forest have agreed on a pre-contract with the Fenerbahçe full-back. The Nigerian international is out of contract in the summer and, despite being a key player under José Mourinho, he has opted not to extend his deal. Osayi-Samuel has made 168 appearances for Fenerbahçe, scoring seven goals and providing 14 assists. This season, he has featured 29 times for the Turkish giants, playing a crucial role in their defensive setup.
The 27-year-old, who previously played for Queens Park Rangers and Blackpool, has been linked with a return to England for some time, and it now looks like Nottingham Forest will be his next destination. His arrival will bolster Forest’s defensive options, particularly at right-back or right wing-back, where his pace and attacking contributions could add another dimension to the team.
Forest Keen to Keep Ola Aina Despite Reports of Replacement
Interestingly, reports suggest that Osayi-Samuel’s arrival is intended to replace Ola Aina, but many believe that keeping both players would be the smarter move. Aina has been one of Nottingham Forest’s standout performers this season since joining on a free transfer from Torino. The versatile full-back has impressed with his defensive ability, tactical awareness, and ability to play on either flank.
Aina himself has expressed his desire to stay at Forest, and the club has reportedly triggered a one-year contract extension, ensuring he remains at the City Ground until the end of the 2024/25 season. While some speculated that he could leave on a free transfer in the summer, this extension secures his future for at least another year.
However, Aina’s strong performances have also attracted interest from other clubs, including Manchester City, who reportedly see him as a potential long-term replacement for Kyle Walker. With Walker turning 35 next season, Pep Guardiola is considering his options at right-back, and Aina’s consistency and Premier League experience make him an appealing candidate. The Sun has reported that City are monitoring the situation closely.
Despite this interest, Forest should focus on keeping both Aina and Osayi-Samuel in their squad. The departure of Alex Moreno and Harry Toffolo in the summer will leave the club short on full-backs, and ensuring depth in those positions will be crucial for next season. Having both Osayi-Samuel and Aina in the squad would give Forest multiple tactical options, allowing them to rotate and adjust formations when needed.
More Transfers Expected: Forest’s Summer Ambitions
Beyond strengthening their full-back positions, Forest will be active in other areas of the pitch as well. Marinakis has long been eager to add another striker, and the club will almost certainly be in the market for a proven goal-scorer this summer.
One name linked with a move to Forest is Davide Frattesi, the Italian midfielder currently at Inter Milan. While securing a deal for Frattesi could be difficult, the links suggest that Forest are looking to add quality midfield reinforcements alongside their defensive and attacking targets.
With European qualification still a possibility, Forest could be in a strong position to attract high-caliber players in the summer window. The squad is expected to undergo a rebuild, with several departures and multiple new signings. While Osayi-Samuel’s deal looks close to completion and Aina’s extension provides stability, Forest fans can expect many more transfer developments in the coming months.
Final Thoughts
Nottingham Forest’s summer transfer window is shaping up to be an exciting one. Securing Bright Osayi-Samuel on a free transfer represents smart business, adding quality depth to the defensive unit. Keeping Ola Aina is just as important, as he has been a key player this season and losing him would be a setback.
With more signings expected, including a much-needed striker and potential midfield reinforcements, Forest are laying the groundwork for a stronger, more competitive squad next season. If they secure European football, the club could be in an even better position to attract top talent. The summer window will be crucial in determining how far Nottingham Forest can go in their ambitions under Marinakis’ ownership.