Manchester City have secured a crucial agreement with Wolverhampton Wanderers’ left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri, marking a decisive first move in what promises to be a significant summer transfer campaign for the Premier League champions.
Though the summer transfer window has yet to officially open, sources close to the negotiation have confirmed that Aït-Nouri has given his full consent to a switch to the Etihad Stadium.
The news was first reported by Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano on Monday, 2 June 2025, underscoring City’s proactive approach in reshaping their squad ahead of the new season.
Following an inconsistent 2024/25 campaign in which City fell short of their usual high standards, manager Pep Guardiola is determined to strengthen several key positions.
Defensive vulnerabilities, particularly at left-back, were a persistent issue throughout the season—an area the club is now looking to address decisively with the pursuit of Aït-Nouri.
The 23-year-old Algerian international has been a standout performer for Wolves since his arrival in the Premier League, and his technical ability, composure in possession, and versatility have caught the attention of Guardiola, who values full-backs capable of inverting into midfield roles.
City have identified him as a top target, and his readiness to make the move has only accelerated the club’s efforts.
Negotiations between Manchester City and Wolverhampton are expected to escalate rapidly in the coming days, with both parties eager to conclude a deal before the window officially opens.
While terms between player and club are reportedly settled, the two clubs must now agree on a transfer fee that reflects Aït-Nouri’s rising value and importance to Wolves.
The signing of Aït-Nouri would mark the beginning of a potentially transformative summer for City, who are eager to reclaim dominance both domestically and in Europe.
Despite their continued success under Guardiola, the 2024/25 season exposed signs of fatigue and tactical stagnation within the squad.
With several senior players nearing the end of their cycles at the club, Guardiola is expected to oversee a measured rebuild centred on youth, dynamism, and tactical adaptability.
Aït-Nouri, who joined Wolves from Angers in 2020, has matured into one of the most promising full-backs in the English top flight.
His performances have consistently drawn praise for their intelligence and flair, making him an ideal fit for City’s possession-heavy, high-pressing style.
His potential arrival aligns with Guardiola’s long-standing preference for technically gifted defenders who can contribute to both phases of play.
For Wolverhampton, the departure of one of their key assets will be a significant blow, though a sizable transfer fee could aid their own summer restructuring.
The Midlands club will likely look to reinvest in areas that require reinforcement, especially with Aït-Nouri’s influence on both ends of the pitch.
As the transfer window approaches, the tone has been firmly set by City’s early movements. The potential acquisition of Rayan Aït-Nouri is a clear statement of intent from the Manchester side—indicating that the process of reloading for another title charge has already begun in earnest.
🚨🔵 More on Rayan Aït-Nouri story from last week. Understand the left back has already said yes to Manchester City.
Negotiations to advance soon between Man City and Wolves for the left back as reported 10 days ago, on top of the list. pic.twitter.com/7Pf9A7iLLl
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 2, 2025
