Rayan Aït-Nouri is edging closer to a Wolverhampton exit this summer, with Atlético Madrid officially pulling out of the race to sign the Algerian left-back due to financial constraints.
Despite Diego Simeone’s keen interest, the Spanish giants have been forced to abandon negotiations after Wolverhampton reportedly placed a €50 million price tag on the 23-year-old.
According to Relevo, Atlético’s management deemed the asking price too steep and opted to step away, leaving Manchester City as the clear frontrunner for the defender’s signature.
Aït-Nouri, who has enjoyed a strong season in the Premier League, has drawn attention from top clubs across Europe.
However, with Atlético unable to meet Wolverhampton’s demands, City have now emerged as the most serious suitor.
Talks are already underway between the reigning English champions and the Midlands club, with Pep Guardiola understood to be pushing for reinforcement in the left-back position.
While Aït-Nouri’s current market valuation stands at around €35 million, Wolverhampton appear to be holding out for a significantly higher fee.
This has not deterred City, who view the Algerian international as a strategic investment.
Guardiola’s side has struggled with consistency and depth on the left flank, and the addition of Aït-Nouri could help address persistent gaps caused by injury and tactical reshuffling.
The left-back, who has 23 caps for Algeria, has made a strong impression in the Premier League since arriving from Angers in 2020, first on loan and then permanently.
His blend of defensive tenacity and attacking support has turned him into one of the more exciting prospects in his position across Europe’s top leagues.
As the transfer window approaches, Wolverhampton remain firm in their valuation, hoping to capitalise on rising interest.
Manchester City, with greater financial muscle than Atlético Madrid, may be better placed to meet those terms.
For now, the door appears open for a potential move to the Etihad.
With Atlético now officially out of the running, the focus turns to Manchester City and how negotiations evolve over the coming weeks.
Aït-Nouri’s future seems destined for one of Europe’s elite clubs—just not in La Liga.
