OFFICIAL ✅: Celtic FC Completes The Signing of Nigerian Defender Ola Aina From Nottingham Forest On a Five-Year Contract, Until 2031. Welcome To The Parkhead Ola Aina!

OFFICIAL ✅: Celtic FC Completes The Signing of Nigerian Defender Ola Aina From Nottingham Forest On a Five-Year Contract, Until 2031. Welcome To The Parkhead Ola Aina!

Celtic Football Club has officially confirmed the arrival of experienced Nigerian international defender Ola Aina, who joins the Scottish Premiership champions from Nottingham Forest on a long-term agreement running through to the summer of 2031. The deal brings an end to weeks of negotiations, as the Hoops beat off competition from several other clubs to secure the versatile full-back’s signature.

The 29-year-old put pen to paper on the five-year contract at Lennoxtown earlier today, after successfully completing all required medical assessments and finalising personal terms. He will link up immediately with the first-team squad ahead of their upcoming domestic and European fixtures, and is set to be unveiled to supporters at Parkhead in the coming days.

Aina arrives at Celtic with a wealth of top-flight experience across three major European leagues. A graduate of the Chelsea youth academy, he made his senior breakthrough in West London before enjoying spells at Hull City, Torino, and Fulham, then moving to Nottingham Forest in 2023. Over his career, he has made more than 200 professional appearances, featuring in the Premier League, Serie A, and UEFA competitions, while also serving as a key figure for the Nigerian national team, earning over 40 caps and representing the Super Eagles at multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

Primarily deployed as a right-back but equally comfortable operating on the left side of defence or as a wing-back, Aina brings valuable balance, defensive solidity, and attacking drive to Brendan Rodgers’ squad. Known for his strong one-on-one defending, consistent distribution, and ability to contribute high up the pitch, he is viewed as the ideal addition to strengthen Celtic’s defensive options as they target further domestic honours and make an impact in the UEFA Champions League.

Speaking after signing his contract, Aina expressed his delight at making the move: “It feels amazing to be here at such a massive club with incredible history and ambition. I’ve seen how passionate the Celtic supporters are, and I’m ready to give everything I have to help this team win trophies. I can’t wait to run out at Parkhead, and I’m so proud to start this new chapter until 2031.”

Celtic’s Chief Executive also welcomed the new arrival: “We are thrilled to secure a player of Ola’s quality and experience on a five-year deal. He fits perfectly into our style of play, adds real depth to our defensive line, and brings leadership that will benefit our group both on and off the pitch. We look forward to seeing him thrive in the famous green and white.”

Nottingham Forest acknowledged the transfer in a brief statement, thanking Aina for his service during his two-year stay at the City Ground and wishing him every success in his next challenge.

With this signing, Celtic continues to strengthen their squad for the long term, securing a proven performer who will be available for the next five seasons. Everyone at the club extends a warm welcome to Ola Aina – welcome to Parkhead!