Rayan Ait-Nouri open to Manchester United move but City rivalry may block deal

Rayan Ait-Nouri could leave Manchester City as soon as the next winter transfer window, with Manchester United monitoring the Algeria international’s situation.

The left-back joined Manchester City hoping to take the next step in his career, but reports suggest he is now open to moving on from the Etihad Stadium. Manchester United are understood to be ready to explore the opportunity as they look to strengthen their options on the left side of defence.

United show interest in Ait-Nouri

Manchester United’s interest in Ait-Nouri was reported exclusively by Africafoot. The club’s hierarchy is said to view the left-back as a potential solution to their need for greater defensive depth.

Ait-Nouri would reportedly be receptive to a move to Old Trafford. According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, negotiations over personal terms would not present a significant difficulty, meaning Manchester United could find it relatively straightforward to reach an agreement with the player.

The 27-year-old’s willingness to consider the move gives Manchester United encouragement as they assess a possible approach. However, any deal would depend heavily on whether Manchester City are prepared to negotiate with their local rivals.

Manchester rivalry threatens transfer

The relationship between the two Manchester clubs could prove to be the central obstacle. Their longstanding rivalry means Manchester City may be reluctant to make one of their players available to Manchester United, even if Ait-Nouri is interested in taking on a new challenge.

That could make the proposed transfer difficult to complete despite the apparent sporting fit and the player’s reported openness to the move. Manchester United will now have to establish whether Manchester City would consider allowing the Algeria international to join their biggest domestic rivals.

Ait-Nouri’s future is therefore expected to be closely watched as the winter transfer window approaches. With Manchester United interested and the defender reportedly willing to listen, the next stage of the situation will depend largely on Manchester City’s position.