Barcelona monitor Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri ahead of January window

Barcelona are considering a move for Manchester City left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri as they assess options to strengthen their defence during the January transfer window.

The Algeria international is being closely monitored by the Catalan club, according to Spanish newspaper Sport, with his limited opportunities at Manchester City potentially leading to a departure in January.

Ait-Nouri, 25, joined Manchester City from Wolverhampton in the summer of 2025 but has struggled to establish himself in the team. His lack of regular playing time could make a move possible when the transfer window opens.

Barcelona view the defender as an attractive option because of his attacking qualities and his ability to advance along the left flank. However, any move is likely to depend partly on the future of Alejandro Balde, whose position at the club has prompted questions in Catalonia.

If Balde leaves, Ait-Nouri could become a priority target to replace him.

Manchester City would reportedly be willing to allow the Algeria international to leave on loan, although the English club want any agreement to include an obligation for Barcelona to buy him next summer.

That condition could make negotiations more difficult for Barcelona, who remain mindful of their financial situation.

Ait-Nouri is under contract with Manchester City until 30 June 2030 and has an estimated market value of 35 million euros.

Barcelona are not the only club monitoring the defender. Juventus are also said to be following his situation, while Manchester United have shown interest as well, according to exclusive information reported by Africafoot.