Leeds 'in the lead' to sign Ola Aina

Football FanCast

Leeds: Whites 'in the lead' to sign Ola Aina

By Henry Jackson

Published Jan 7, 2023

Leeds United are believed to be 'in the lead' in the battle to sign Torino defender Ola Aina, according to a new transfer report from Italy.

Leeds United are believed to be 'in the lead' in the race to sign Torino defender Ola Aina, according to a new transfer report from Italy.

The Lowdown: Aina a key figure for Torino

The Nigerian has matured into an important squad player for his current club in Serie A, making 103 appearances for them to date.

However, Aina has been limited to just seven league starts this season, and it could be that a new challenge comes his way in the current transfer window.

The 26-year-old was linked with a move to Leeds in December, and a new update has emerged in that regard.

The Latest: Leeds 'in the lead' for Aina

According to Tuttosport [via Sport Witness], the Whites are currently 'in the lead' for Aina's signature, with the defender 'destined' to leave Torino after some 'erratic' performances.

His current deal expires at the end of this season, so a January exit could allow him to earn Torino some money from selling him this month.

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The Verdict: Good versatile option

Admittedly, Aina hasn't been pulling up any trees with his displays this season, but he could still prove to be a handy prospective addition for Jesse Marsch this month. He has been described as a 'great player' by Torino manager Ivan Juric, despite his patchy form of late.

The 29-cap Nigeria international's positional flexibility is something which stands out as a positive - he has been hailed as "Mr Versatile" in the past by Fulham podcaster Sammy James - and he is capable of playing at centre-back, full-back and in a defensive midfield role.

The reports that Torino are keen to sell could put Leeds in a strong bargaining position, allowing Victor Orta and co to sign him on the cheap and arguably for a cut-price figure.