Rayan Ait-Nouri’s Manchester City unrest opens door for Manchester United move

Manchester United have been given renewed hope of signing Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri, whose limited playing time this season has prompted his representatives to seek a solution to his situation.

The 25-year-old Algeria international was considered a possible Manchester United target during the summer transfer window, when the club were looking to strengthen at left-back.

United were also linked with Newcastle player Lewis Hall and Barcelona defender Alejandro Balde, but manager Michael Carrick was not able to add anyone in that position. Luke Shaw has consequently remained the only first-team option available at left-back.

The club had shown an interest in Ait-Nouri, but Manchester City rejected a proposal to loan him on the final day of the transfer window. Manchester United could revive their pursuit in January, with the player’s departure now considered increasingly possible, according to the British newspaper The Sun.

Ait-Nouri’s representatives have reportedly asked Manchester City to find a way forward, raising the prospect of the defender leaving during the upcoming winter transfer window.

“We have to find the best solution with Manchester City. He cannot remain in a situation where his talent is being wasted,” the player’s representatives said.

Ait-Nouri seeking regular football

Ait-Nouri has made only four appearances this season and has not played in the Premier League. His desire for more minutes comes after he featured in just 17 Premier League matches under Pep Guardiola last season.

He has made two appearances in the Carabao Cup and Champions League this campaign, producing three assists in a total of only 168 minutes.

Manchester City have been reluctant to allow the defender to join their local rivals, while Ait-Nouri is also attracting interest from Italian club Juventus.

The defender’s lack of involvement has increased the possibility of a move away from the club, despite his contribution when selected. His representatives are now pushing for an arrangement that would give him a greater opportunity to play.

United’s need for cover at left-back remains an issue after they failed to complete a signing in the position during the summer. The club’s interest in Ait-Nouri could therefore be renewed when the January transfer window opens, although Manchester City previously rejected the prospect of sending him to Old Trafford on loan.