Newcastle now expected to open talks to sign player Pep Guardiola thinks is ‘exceptional’

As the summer transfer window approaches, Newcastle United appear ready to flex their financial muscles after navigating the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules.

Club insiders suggest the Magpies are preparing for significant reinforcements to address their glaring lack of squad depth, with versatile Nottingham Forest defender Ola Aina emerging as a prime target.

The 28-year-old Nigerian international has become one of the most sought-after free agents in English football following his impressive campaign at the City Ground.

Pep Guardiola’s description of Aina as “exceptional” carries significant weight, and the defender’s performances this season justify the praise. With 30 Premier League starts, two goals, and an assist to his name, Aina has demonstrated the consistency and tactical intelligence that Eddie Howe values highly.

What makes Aina particularly appealing to Newcastle is his remarkable versatility – a quality Howe prioritizes when shaping his squad. The former Chelsea academy product has seamlessly alternated between right-back (26 appearances), right midfield (3), and left-back (3) this season, offering exactly the kind of flexible cover Newcastle desperately need.

His ability to play on either flank would provide crucial insurance for Kieran Trippier and Dan Burn while allowing Howe to maintain tactical consistency regardless of injuries or suspensions.

The race for Aina’s signature promises to be fiercely contested. Liverpool view him as potential cover for Trent Alexander-Arnold, while Tottenham see him as competition for Pedro Porro.

However, Newcastle’s project under Howe – combined with the likely promise of European football next season – could give them an edge in negotiations.

This potential move signals Newcastle’s broader summer strategy: identifying cost-effective solutions that don’t compromise on quality.

With Aina available on a free transfer, the Magpies could allocate more resources to strengthening other problem areas, particularly in attack and central midfield.

For Forest, losing Aina would represent a significant blow to their impressive defensive unit. His athleticism and tactical discipline have been instrumental in their surprise push for European qualification, making his potential departure all the more painful.

Newcastle supporters can take heart from the club’s proactive approach to the transfer market. After a relatively quiet January, the hierarchy appears ready to back Howe with the reinforcements needed to compete on multiple fronts next season.

Aina’s potential arrival would be just the first step in what promises to be a transformative summer at St James’ Park.

The coming weeks will reveal whether Newcastle can fend off competition from their Premier League rivals to secure Aina’s signature.

One thing is certain: the Magpies are finally in position to address their squad depth issues, and players of Aina’s caliber represent exactly the profile they need to take the next step in their ambitious project.