Rayan Ait-Nouri could leave Manchester City during the next winter transfer window, with Manchester United reportedly interested in signing the Algeria international.
The left-back joined City hoping to take the next step in his career, but his future at the Etihad Stadium is already uncertain. He is said to be open to a move just months after arriving at the club, creating an opportunity that has attracted the attention of their neighbours.
United assess defensive option
Manchester United are looking to strengthen on the left side of their defence and view Ait-Nouri as a potential solution, according to an exclusive report by Africafoot.
The Red Devils are understood to be monitoring the defender closely as they seek to add further options to that area of the squad. Ait-Nouri would offer United another choice at left-back if the clubs were able to reach an agreement over a transfer.
The player is reportedly receptive to the possibility of moving to Old Trafford. Journalist Florian Plettenberg says negotiations over personal terms would not be expected to present a significant difficulty.
That means United could find it relatively straightforward to agree terms with Ait-Nouri himself. The more complicated part of the proposed deal would be persuading Manchester City to allow one of their players to join their historic rivals.
Manchester rivalry threatens deal
Although the move appears attractive from a sporting perspective, the relationship between the two Manchester clubs could prove decisive. Their long-standing rivalry means City may be reluctant to make it easier for United to recruit from their squad.
The issue could therefore become the central obstacle as the winter transfer window approaches. Ait-Nouri is believed to be open to a new challenge and United have expressed interest, but the deal would depend on City’s willingness to negotiate with the club from across the city.
Ait-Nouri’s situation is consequently expected to remain under close scrutiny. United must determine whether they can convince City to sanction the Algeria international’s departure, while the player’s openness to the move gives the Red Devils a potentially favourable position in discussions over personal conditions.
Before attention turns fully to the transfer window, Manchester City will soon play their fourth match of the Champions League league phase against RB Leipzig. priori