Wolverhampton Wanderers manager Vítor Pereira has firmly stated his intention to retain Algerian left-back Rayan Aït-Nouri, despite mounting interest from several top clubs ahead of the summer transfer window.
Since taking over at Molineux in December, Pereira has been instrumental in revitalising the team’s fortunes, steering them clear of relegation with a series of impressive performances.
Aït-Nouri, 23, has been a standout player during this resurgence, contributing significantly both defensively and offensively.
He has featured in 21 matches under Pereira, scoring two goals and providing four assists, while also enhancing his defensive reliability.
Addressing the speculation surrounding Aït-Nouri’s future, Pereira expressed his desire to build the team around the young defender.
At a recent press conference, he remarked, “If you were in my shoes, would you want to keep him or not?” before adding, “I want to keep him too.
He’s a top-level player and we want to keep our best players.”
The Portuguese coach emphasised the importance of maintaining stability within the squad, stating, “The objective is to keep our best players and not recruit too many.
Otherwise, we will have to start from scratch. I don’t want to start from scratch, even if certain positions need improvement for next season.”
Aït-Nouri’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with several prominent clubs reportedly monitoring his situation.
Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool, and Chelsea are among the clubs linked with a move for the talented full-back, whose current contract with Wolves runs until 2026.
Despite this interest, Aït-Nouri has indicated his contentment at Wolves, stating, “Every moment is an experience for me here and I just love being here.”
He also praised the support from the club’s fans, describing them as feeling “like a family.”
In response to the growing interest, Wolves are reportedly preparing a contract extension offer for Aït-Nouri, which would include a salary increase.
This move underscores the club’s commitment to securing his long-term future at Molineux.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Aït-Nouri faces a pivotal decision regarding his career.
While the allure of playing for a club competing in European competitions may be tempting, remaining at Wolves could offer him continued development and a central role in Pereira’s plans.
With the club’s intentions clear, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Aït-Nouri remains a key figure at Molineux or embarks on a new chapter in his career.
