Manchester United are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Manchester City defender Rayan Ait-Nouri during the January transfer window, with the player said to be open to a move across the Manchester divide.
United's Struggles and Transfer Plans
The Red Devils have endured a difficult start to the season, winning just two of their first 12 matches across all competitions. Following a 3-0 defeat to Bournemouth, reports circulated that manager Michael Carrick was about to be sacked, but the INEOS hierarchy could not agree on a plan, leaving Carrick in charge for now.
Results will need to improve quickly if Carrick is to remain in his role, starting with the weekend match against Chelsea. After that, United host Roma at Old Trafford in midweek, followed by a home game against Aston Villa before the November international break.
Left-Back Search Continues
Despite the current crisis, United's transfer chiefs are already planning for the January window, with a focus on strengthening at left-back. In the summer, Lewis Hall was the club's primary target, but a deal with Newcastle could not be agreed, leaving the 20-time champions with little time to explore alternatives.
One option considered was Ait-Nouri, with United reportedly launching a move on deadline day that did not materialise. Given the Algerian's limited minutes this season, speculation about a departure has persisted.
Ait-Nouri's Situation at City
Ait-Nouri is yet to feature in the Premier League this season, with Nico O'Reilly and Josko Gvardiol operating as City's primary full-backs. City boss Enzo Maresca addressed the situation after the midweek Carabao Cup win over Brighton, saying: "He's a clear full-back. In that position, we have Josko [Gvardiol], who is doing fantastic, we have Nico [O'Reilly], who when he is fit is doing fantastic; and he's the same position so it's just competition between them."
According to TEAMtalk, United are exploring the possibility of signing Ait-Nouri when the transfer window opens in January. It is suggested the player would be open to the switch, which would make him the first to transfer between the two clubs since Owen Hargreaves in 2011.
