Guardiola's 2025 masterpiece: Building the perfect Manchester City

The Premier League champions are keen to strengthen their defensive options, with Kyle Walker's form having dipped in recent seasons. While names like Jeremie Frimpong and Malo Gusto have been linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium, it appears that Ola Aina has also emerged as a serious contender.

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According to The Sun, City have been monitoring Aina's progress for some time. The Nigerian international has established himself as a key player for Nottingham Forest and his performances in the Premier League have caught the eye of several top clubs.

Aina, a former Chelsea academy graduate, has been a regular starter for Forest this season, featuring in all 19 of their Premier League matches and scoring two goals. His versatility, combined with his physical attributes and experience, make him an attractive proposition for Pep Guardiola's side.

What makes Aina an appealing option for City?

• Contract Situation: Perhaps most enticing for City is Aina's contract situation. With his deal at the City Ground set to expire at the end of the season, he could be available for a relatively modest fee in January, or even on a free transfer next summer.
• Premier League Experience: Aina has already proven himself in the Premier League, and his familiarity with the English top flight would allow him to settle in quickly at City.
• Versatility: The Nigerian can operate both as a right-back and a wing-back, offering Guardiola tactical flexibility.
• Physical Attributes: Aina is a strong, athletic player who possesses the pace and stamina required to compete at the highest level.

With City looking to strengthen their squad ahead of another challenging campaign, the signing of Aina could provide them with a cost-effective solution to their right-back dilemma. However, it remains to be seen whether the Citizens will be able to fend off interest from other clubs for the Nigerian international.