Leeds United have set their sights on full-back Ola Aina from Torino, as the Italian side are hoping for offers to arrive for the Nigerian.
According to Tuttosport, as relayed by Sport Witness, Ola Aina is of interest to Leeds United in the current transfer window. Marcelo Bielsa wants to bring in new players for a few key positions and a versatile full-back is high on the agenda.
Ola Aina came through Chelsea’s youth system. As part of the club’s loan policy for young players, the Nigerian had stints at Hull City and Torino, whom he joined permanently in 2019.
Last season, the versatile full-back spent time on loan at Fulham in the Premier League. After Torino failed to sell him in the summer, he remained at the club and has played a significant number of games this season, including 13 starts in the Serie A. To date, the Nigerian international has made 87 appearances, scoring one goal and setting up six more.
However, the Serie A side are still open to offers for Aina and may be ready to accept a bid, with Leeds United reportedly keeping tabs on the full-back.
Leeds find themselves treading around the relegation zone after enduring a difficult first half of the Premier League season plagued with injuries. They are hoping to put an end to their slump with signings in January to ensure their safety in the top flight.
Aina, primarily a right-back, has played on the opposite flank for most of the season, which is the kind of player Bielsa is looking to add to his team. The former Chelsea starlet would provide cover to Luke Ayling and Junior Firpo in the full-back slots at Elland Road.
Leeds also hope to sign a central defender and a midfielder in the winter window. They are linked with several names for the centre-back position, including QPR’s Rob Dickie, while they have sights on Norwich midfielder Todd Cantwell, who could be an achievable target considering his contractual situation with the Canaries.
As for Aina, it could be a good move to get back into the Premier League. Torino will be hoping he has a good tournament at the AFCON with Nigeria, as his performances could increase his value. With whispers of Leeds’ interest circulating, the Italian side will hope it converts into a concrete offer soon.