CHELSEA have confirmed Ola Aina’s permanent move to Torino – despite their current transfer ban.
The right-back, 22, made just three senior appearances for the Blues after joining the club in 2007.
Aina had spent the past season on loan with Italian side Torino, making 32 appearances in all competitions.
And the Nigeria international has now made his Serie A switch permanent for an undisclosed fee.
Chelsea’s decision to sell Aina hints that 19-year-old Reece James will play a role in the first team next season.
The Blues are currently under a two-window transfer ban.
But it appears they are confident James can step up to the plate by allowing the more experienced Aina to depart.
That’s despite Chelsea’s loan technical coach Eddie Newton hailing Aina as one for the future earlier this year.
He said: “Ole has got exceptional talents – physical, technical, uses both feet, quick, powerful boy.
“But the question mark over his head was his concentration throughout 90 minutes.
“He has proved he can do that and been consistent this season.
“I’m really proud of him because he’s mentally tuned in now and I think we have to really start taking him seriously.”
