Manchester United tested Manchester City’s resolve over Algeria defender Ait-Nouri

Manchester United made a late approach for Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri as they searched for a left-back before the transfer deadline.

The move was described as an “exploratory” enquiry and came after the Red Devils had been rebuffed by several other targets for the position. United wanted to strengthen their squad and provide competition for Luke Shaw, but Manchester City rejected the approach.

Ait-Nouri, an Algeria international, would have been a particularly striking addition because of his links to United’s biggest local rivals. The 24-year-old joined Manchester City from Wolverhampton during the summer 2025 transfer window and has made 31 appearances for the club.

However, his role has been limited. Ait-Nouri started only 12 Premier League matches under Pep Guardiola and has not yet played a minute with Enzo Maresca. He was an unused substitute in the Community Shield and in Manchester City’s opening two Premier League fixtures against Bournemouth and Crystal Palace.

His place in the side has instead gone to Nico O’Reilly, leaving Ait-Nouri lower down the defensive pecking order. Despite that unsettled position, the Etihad Stadium club were described as categorical in their response and refused to entertain Manchester United’s late enquiry.

United had explored a number of alternatives during the summer. Alejandro Balde, the FC Barcelona left-back, was linked with a move to Old Trafford, but the player made it clear he had no intention of leaving Camp Nou.

The club also showed interest in Jorge Salinas of Racing Santander, although there was never sufficient progress for an agreement to become realistic. Premier League left-backs Lewis Hall and Myles Lewis-Skelly were also considered, but United were unable to persuade either player to join.

The search for a left-back came after the club identified midfield reinforcement as their main priority in the transfer market. Significant work was completed in that area, with Andrey Santos, Youri Tielemans and Carlos Baleba all recruited.

United did, however, miss out on Ederson, despite an agreement having initially been reported.

With the deadline approaching rapidly, a new left-back remained an unresolved priority. The limited time left in the window made it unlikely that Manchester United would be able to hold detailed negotiations and complete a deal before the market closed.

Their late attempt to sign Ait-Nouri therefore ended without success, while Manchester City retained a player who, despite his restricted involvement, was not made available to their neighbours.