Ola Aina admits he’s facing an uncertain future at Torino amid reports suggesting he’s heading back to the Premier League with Crystal Palace, speaking to Own Goal Nigeria.
Malian midfield powerhouse Cheick Doucoure might have emerged as Patrick Vieira’s top priority this summer but a new right-back won’t be too far behind.
And Crystal Palace could have a clear run at Aina. Or, at least, clearer than they might have imagined.
Leeds United have turned their attention to the swashbuckling Rasmus Kristensen – The Athletic say a deal has been agreed that will see the Dane reunite with Brenden Aaronson and Jesse Marsch at Elland Road – while West Ham are prioritising other targets as things stand.
Will Ola Aina join Crystal Palace?
Aina has just 12 months left on his contract, a point he was keen to make when quizzed about his future at Torino.
And, according to reports in Italy, Crystal Palace are in pole position ahead of a potential £10 million switch to Selhurst Park.
“We will have to see what happens over the summer,” says the former Chelsea, Fulham and Hull City defender. “I’m not sure. I have only one year left (on my contract). I am not sure what will happen.”
25-year-old Aina fell out of favour following the African Cup of Nations, with Torino coach Ivan Juric criticising his performances during training. Aina bounced back, however, and forced his way back into the first-team picture, starting against Lazio, Atalanta and Roma as Il Granata secured a top-half finish.
“I think my season started well because, you know, I was playing really well, starting all the time,” Aina adds.
“And then, after January, like everyone knows, the game time wasn’t there much. It was a little up and down, but I think I finished the season really strong.”
Crystal Palace have also been linked with former academy graduate Aaron Wan-Bissaka while Junior Sambia is now a free-agent after being released by Montpellier.
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