Manchester United revive interest in Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri after failed deadline-day move

Manchester United are preparing to make another attempt to sign Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri when the January transfer window opens after their deadline-day pursuit of the Algerian international was rejected in the summer.

United are reportedly keen to revisit a move for the 25-year-old as they look to strengthen their defensive options and provide competition for Luke Shaw at left-back.

The Red Devils explored the possibility of signing Ait-Nouri on loan from their city rivals on the final day of the summer transfer window, but Manchester City refused to sanction the deal.

Despite that setback, United have maintained their interest in the defender and are now considering another approach as they assess their options ahead of the second half of the campaign.

According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, the Old Trafford outfit are expected to return for Ait-Nouri in January as they look to address their need for greater depth on the left side of defence.

The Algeria international is also understood to be receptive to a move to United, with personal terms unlikely to present a significant obstacle to negotiations.

Ait-Nouri’s Manchester City future uncertain

Ait-Nouri’s situation at the Etihad Stadium could provide United with an opportunity to revive their pursuit, having struggled to establish himself in Pep Guardiola’s plans.

The defender has yet to make a single Premier League appearance for City this season, raising further questions about his immediate future at the club.

His lack of involvement could make a departure in January a realistic possibility, particularly if he continues to struggle for regular playing time.

United are believed to view the former Wolverhampton Wanderers defender as a suitable addition to their squad, with his arrival potentially offering greater competition and cover for Shaw.

The 25-year-old’s attacking qualities and experience in English football could also make him an attractive option as United seek to improve their defensive depth.

Strained Manchester rivalry could complicate deal

While Ait-Nouri is reportedly open to joining United and personal terms are not expected to be problematic, negotiations between the two clubs could prove considerably more difficult.

The strained relationship between Manchester United and Manchester City remains the biggest obstacle to any potential agreement.

City’s decision to reject United’s loan approach on deadline day demonstrated their reluctance to strengthen their neighbours, even when a proposed deal could have offered Ait-Nouri an opportunity for more regular football.

That position could complicate United’s attempts to secure the defender in January, with City having to decide whether they are willing to entertain another approach from their fierce rivals.