Barcelona consider Manchester City’s Ait-Nouri as potential Alejandro Balde replacement

Barcelona are reportedly monitoring Manchester City left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri as they consider strengthening their defensive options during the January transfer window.

According to Spanish outlet Diario Sport, the Catalan giants have identified the Algeria international as a potential replacement for Alejandro Balde, who is expected to leave Camp Nou in the winter window following his drop in the pecking order under Hansi Flick.

The 25-year-old has struggled for playing time at Manchester City this season and is yet to feature in a Premier League match.

Ait-Nouri seeks Manchester City exit

Ait-Nouri is reportedly keen to leave Manchester City in January in search of regular playing time and an opportunity to revive his career elsewhere.

The former Wolverhampton Wanderers defender has found himself almost completely sidelined this season despite having a contract with the Premier League club until 2030.

His limited involvement has increased speculation over his future, with a departure during the winter transfer window increasingly possible.

Juventus also monitoring Algerian defender

Barcelona are not the only European club keeping tabs on Ait-Nouri’s situation, with Italian giants Juventus also reportedly monitoring the former Wolves defender.

The interest from both clubs could give the Algerian international options as he considers his next move away from Manchester City.