Sky Sports Journalist Confirms That Man Utd “Would Like To Sign” Wantaway Man City Player
Manchester United “would like to sign” left-back Rayan Ait-Nouri, who is “open to leaving” Man City, according to Sky Sport Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg.
It was reported last week that a controversial move across Manchester could be on the cards, but while Plettenberg confirms the defender could easily reach an agreement with United, City may still block the move:
“Rayan Ait-Nouri, one to watch in the winter transfer window. The 25 y/o left-back is open to leaving Manchester City. Understand Manchester United would like to sign him. Personal terms are not an issue.”
“The main issue is the relationship between the two Manchester clubs. Aït-Nouri’s market is currently being explored.”
Ait-Nouri is not part of Maresca’s plans
The Algerian international struggled to establish himself during his first campaign at City, having started only 12 league games under previous manager Pep Guardiola.
However, since the appointment of Enzo Maresca, Aitr-Nouri has found minutes even harder to come by. He has yet to make an appearance in the Premier League so far this season.
Man City are reluctant to strengthen a rival
United are in desperate need of a left-back. Luke Shaw has missed the last five games due to injury, and manager Michael Carrick has been forced to play Diogo Dalot out of position.
Ait-Nouri’s arrival would, therefore, be welcomed by the Red Devils, but City may put the blockers on the deal due to their reluctance to negotiate with their Manchester rivals. It’s been 27 years since a player (who was not out of contract) made the switch between the two clubs.
For that reason, Ait-Nouri may have to wait until another buyer can be found before his unhappy spell at the Etihad comes to an end.