Italian outlet Torino Granata report that Leeds United have been ‘pressing for months’ to sign Torino and Nigeria star Ola Aina on a free transfer when his deal expires in the summer – but the report also claims that West Ham are keen.
London-born Aina, 26, has spent the last five years on the books at Torino. Initially joining the club on loan in 2018, he has gone on to play 109 times in league and cup for the Serie A side. He spent the 20-21 term on loan at Fulham.
The 29-time Nigeria star is set to leave Torino in the summer. His contract expires at the end of the season. Leeds have been regularly linked with a move for Aina. The new report claims that the Whites remain in the hunt for him.
Indeed, it is believed that Victor Orta have been pushing for Aina for some time – at least, the last few months. But, with his deal expiring, Leeds are not the only team that want him. West Ham are increasing their interest in him.
Leeds have been pressing to sign Aina for months but West Ham keen
Leeds have options on the left of their defence. Junior Firpo is improving and one of the first names on the team sheet right now – with Pascal Struijk watching from the bench. But, Leeds do need better on the left of defence.
Is Aina, that? Probably not. He is a good player, with Premier League experience. Willing to get forward and had a decent loan at Craven Cottage – scoring twice in 33 games during 2020-21. But, he is no improvement on Firpo.
If Leeds go down, Firpo could go. Inter Live say Leeds will sell Firpo for just £9m in the summer, if we go down. So, selling Firpo and bringing Aina in on a free makes sense. But, Aina wants the Premier League, not the second tier.
